Learn how to find members within a static truss that carry no load or force.
This technique can make truss analysis using the method of joints far easier by identifying the members that do not play a role in supporting the applied load to a truss.
The reason for zero load members goes back to the fact that a long beam under compression will have a tendency to bend and buckle if not supported along its span.
Trusses are a fundamental part of the study of static structures and static equilibrium. Truss Analysis comes up in most courses that deal with statics. This includes introductory physics courses such as high school physics, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C Mechanics. As well as introductory engineering courses such as PLTW Principles of Engineering (POE).
This problem also serves as the foundation for more advanced statics engineering courses that appear at a college level in fields such as civil engineering.