Shear force diagram interpretation: If the SFD between two points is an inclined straight line, what does it indicate about the loading between those points?

Introduction / Context:
The relationships among load, shear force, and bending moment are foundational: load intensity is the derivative of shear, and shear is the derivative of bending moment. Recognizing diagram shapes lets you infer the type of loading.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Euler–Bernoulli beam assumptions.
• Load intensity w(x) distributed along the span.
• Sign conventions standard.

Concept / Approach:
Fundamental relations:dV/dx = −w(x)dM/dx = V(x)Thus, if V varies linearly (inclined straight line), its derivative is constant, which means the load w is uniform (constant in magnitude).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
For a span with constant w, integrate once to get V as a straight line; integrate again to get M as a quadratic (parabola). This matches textbook diagram shapes.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Point load generates a jump in V, not a linear segment.Zero loading would give constant V (horizontal line), not inclined.Linearly varying distributed load gives a curved (parabolic) SFD, not straight.Constant bending moment implies zero shear (horizontal SFD).

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up the relationships between w, V, and M; misreading jumps (point loads) as slopes; sign convention errors.

Final Answer:

Yes, it indicates a uniformly varying load (constant w).