Strength of a riveted lap joint (working-stress method): The safe (governing) strength of a riveted lap joint is taken as which of the following?

Introduction / Context:
Riveted joints can fail in multiple modes. A safe design recognizes the weakest (governing) mode under the applied load and limits the joint capacity accordingly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Lap joint with standard rivets and plates.
• Working-stress design framework.

Concept / Approach:
The joint fails if any of its critical capacities is exceeded. Three primary capacities are checked: (1) shear of rivets, (2) bearing of rivet/plate, and (3) tearing of the plate across the net section. The safe joint strength is the smallest (least) of these capacities because that mode will govern first.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare efficiencies of the joint (joint strength divided by member strength) to ensure acceptable performance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Selecting any single mode (shear or bearing or tearing) ignores other potential lower capacities; picking the greatest would be unsafe.

Common Pitfalls:
Using gross rather than net section in tearing checks; forgetting double shear in cover-plate joints; miscounting effective rivets.

Final Answer:
Least of (a), (b), and (c)