Columns: define slenderness ratio precisely. Use the standard mechanical design definition relating effective length and cross-section property. Choose the correct option.
Mechanical Engineering
Machine Design
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AMaximum size of column ÷ minimum size of column
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BWidth of column ÷ depth of column
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CEffective length of column ÷ least radius of gyration of the column
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DEffective length of column ÷ width of column
Answer
Correct Answer: Effective length of column ÷ least radius of gyration of the column
Explanation
DefinitionThe slenderness ratio quantifies column propensity to buckle and is defined as λ = Le / kmin where Le is the effective length and kmin is the least radius of gyration of the cross section.
Why option (c)Euler buckling and design formulas employ λ = Le/k; using the least radius of gyration is conservative because buckling occurs about the weakest axis.
Final AnswerEffective length of column ÷ least radius of gyration of the column