Elastic properties – typical range of Poisson’s ratio for structural steel within the elastic limit Within the elastic range, Poisson’s ratio for carbon structural steel generally lies in the range:

Introduction / Context:
Poisson’s ratio ν is the negative ratio of lateral to longitudinal strain under uniaxial loading. For structural steel, knowing ν helps with 3D stress–strain relations, plate theory, and dynamic analyses.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Isotropic, homogeneous steel in the elastic regime.
• Typical structural grades used in buildings and bridges.

Concept / Approach:
For common structural steels, ν is typically around 0.30. A reasonable range used in design calculations spans approximately 0.25–0.33, covering variation with composition and heat treatment while staying in the elastic domain.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the accepted design range → 0.25 to 0.33.Confirm that other listed ranges are either too low, too high, or nonsensical (decreasing bounds).

Verification / Alternative check:
Elastic constants relationships: E = 2 G (1 + ν) and K = E / (3(1 − 2ν)) produce realistic G and K for steel when ν ≈ 0.3.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 0.33–0.35 and 0.45–0.50: too high for ordinary structural steel in elastic range.
• 0.15–0.20: too low; typical of some ceramics, not steel.
• 0.25–0.24: invalid interval ordering.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing Poisson’s ratio of steel (≈0.3) with that of concrete (≈0.15–0.2) or rubberlike materials (≈0.49).

Final Answer:
0.25 to 0.33