A rigid steel bar $\mathrm{ABC}$ is supported by three rods. There is no strain in the rods before load $\mathrm{P}$ is applied. After load $\mathrm{P}$ is applied, the normal strain in rod $\left(1\right)$ is $1,200 \mathrm{\mu \epsilon }$.

a) Determine the normal strain in rods $\left(2\right)$.

b) Determine the normal strain in rods $\left(2\right)$ if there is a $0.5 \mathrm{mm}$ clearance in the connections between rods $\left(2\right)$ and the rigid bar before the load is applied.