kN/m is uniformly distributed load. For example, the self-weight of an iron beam. Often, there are additional loads to consider. But q is also used. Hope that provided some answers 
It's been a while since I worked with statics. But I seem to recall that uniformly distributed load was used quite often...
kN/m[sup]2[/sup] is almost the same thing, except here the distributed load is spread over a meter width. In the other case, you could say it's like a string. Both serve a function for calculating moments, support reactions, etc...
It's been a while since I worked with statics. But I seem to recall that uniformly distributed load was used quite often...kN/m[sup]2[/sup] is almost the same thing, except here the distributed load is spread over a meter width. In the other case, you could say it's like a string. Both serve a function for calculating moments, support reactions, etc...
In short:
kN/m is distributed load per LENGTH [meter]
kN/m2 is distributed load per AREA [square meter]
For example, the self-weight of a beam is given in weight per length, but the self-weight of a slab is given in weight per area. The same applies if one is to load a beam with distributed load, then maximum load in force per unit length is used. If it concerns the maximum load of a concrete slab, for example, it is specified in maximum load per area.
Thus, both units are fully useful and necessary!
//Magnus, studying to become a university engineer, mechanical engineering.
kN/m is distributed load per LENGTH [meter]
kN/m2 is distributed load per AREA [square meter]
For example, the self-weight of a beam is given in weight per length, but the self-weight of a slab is given in weight per area. The same applies if one is to load a beam with distributed load, then maximum load in force per unit length is used. If it concerns the maximum load of a concrete slab, for example, it is specified in maximum load per area.
Thus, both units are fully useful and necessary!
//Magnus, studying to become a university engineer, mechanical engineering.