Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: bending stress is same throughout the beam
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The concept of a beam of uniform strength guides tapered or profiled beams where the cross-section varies so that material is used efficiently; the maximum allowable stress is reached everywhere along the beam.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Uniform strength means the extreme-fiber bending stress σ = M / Z is constant along the member. Since M varies with x, Z must vary so that M/Z remains constant, leading to a variable section (e.g., parabolic depth variation for UDL).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Define target stress σ_allow.At any section: σ_allow = M(x) / Z(x).Thus choose Z(x) ∝ M(x) to keep σ constant.For rectangular sections, Z ∝ b h^2; shaping h(x) to match M(x) achieves uniform strength.
Verification / Alternative check:
Check that at each x, computed σ(x) equals σ_allow within tolerance; this confirms uniform strength.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Final Answer:
bending stress is same throughout the beam
Discussion & Comments