The figure shows a column A B C with its central axis along the x axis. Joint A is at the base. Joint B is 5 meters above joint A and joint C is 4.2 meters above joint C. The forces on either side of joint B have magnitude of 175 kilo newtons and are directed downwards. The forces on either side of joint C have magnitude of 125 kilo newtons and are directed downwards. Points 1 and 2 are marked on the column below joint C and joint B respectively.

To determine the deflection of joint C, the following process will be used:

2. The relationship between the internal force and the deformation of an axial member is given by:

δ=FLAE

   Using this relationship, the deformations for both members (1) and (2) will be computed.

δ1=F1L1A1E1           δ2=F2L2A2E2