Question 1

Elastic energy terms: identify correct statements about strain energy, proof resilience, and modulus of resilience  Consider the standard definitions used in strength of materials. Select the correct group of statements.

Accepted Answer

Definitions Strain energy: total elastic energy stored in a body under load (recoverable).Proof resilience: maximum strain energy up to elastic limit.Modulus of resilience: proof resilience per unit volume. Final Answer All of the above statements are correct.

Question 2

Beam theory: meaning of point of contraflexure (inflection point)  On a bending moment diagram for a beam, identify what occurs at the point of contraflexure.

Accepted Answer

Concept The point of contraflexure (inflection) is where the curvature changes sign; equivalently, the bending moment diagram crosses zero. Final Answer Bending moment changes sign (passes through zero).

Question 3

Solid circular shaft: torque–diameter relation at allowable shear stress  For a solid circular shaft of diameter D, limited by maximum allowable shear stress τ, state the formula for the maximum torque transmitted.

Accepted Answer

Concept/Formula For a solid circular shaft: T = (τ/J)·(J·R) = τ·(J/R).Polar moment J = (π/32)·D⁴, outer radius R = D/2 ⇒ J/R = (π/16)·D³.Thus, T = (π/16)·τ·D³. Final Answer (π/16)·τ·D³.

Question 4

Stability of columns: applicability of Euler's buckling formula  State for which type of column Euler's critical load formula is valid, based on slenderness.

Accepted Answer

Concept Euler's buckling formula assumes elastic instability and is valid for columns with high slenderness ratio (long/slender), where buckling governs before material yield or crushing. Final Answer Long (slender) columns.

Question 5

Plane stress analysis: compute the maximum normal stress (principal stress) for a biaxial state with shear A body is under σ_x = 1200 MPa (tension) and σ_y = 600 MPa (tension) on mutually perpendicular planes. A shear stress τ

Accepted Answer

Given σx = 1200 MPa, σy = 600 MPa, τxy = 400 MPa. Approach Principal stresses for plane stress: σ1,2 = (σx + σy)/2 ± √{ [ (σx − σy)/2 ]² + τxy² }. Step-by-step calculation σavg = (1200 + 600)/2 = 900 MPa.Δ = (σx − σy)/2 = (1200 − 600)/2 = 300 MPa.Radical = √(300² + 400²) = √(90,000 + 160,000) = √250,000 = 500 MPa.σ1 = 900 + 500 = 1400 MPa; σ2 = 900 − 500 = 400 MPa. Verification Mohr’s circle would have center at 900 MPa and radius 500 MPa, consistent with σ1 and σ2 above. Final Answer 1400 MPa.

Question 6

Thick cylinder (Lame’s theory): Maximum tangential (hoop) stress at the inner surface due to internal pressure.  Given: a thick cylindrical shell with inner radius r_i, outer radius r_o, internal pressure p, and negligible external pressure. Choose …

Accepted Answer

Given data Thick cylinder with inner radius r_i and outer radius r_o. Internal pressure = p; external pressure ≈ 0. Concept/Approach Use Lame’s equations for thick cylinders: σ_r = A − B/r^2 and σ_θ = A + B/r^2. Step-by-step derivation Boundary 1 (at r = r_i): σ_r(ri) = −p ⇒ −p = A − B/r_i^2.Boundary 2 (at r = r_o): σ_r(ro) = 0 ⇒ 0 = A − B/r_o^2 ⇒ A = B/r_o^2.Substitute A into Boundary 1: −p = (B/r_o^2) − (B/r_i^2) = B,[1/r_o^2 − 1/r_i^2].Solve for B: B = p, r_i^2 r_o^2 / (r_o^2 − r_i^2).Then A = B/r_o^2 = p, r_i^2 / (r_o^2 − r_i^2).Hoop stress at the inner surface: σ_θ(ri) = A + B/r_i^2 = p(r_o^2 + r_i^2)/(r_o^2 − r_i^2). Common pitfalls Mixing up radial and hoop stresses or sign conventions leads to wrong expressions. Final Answer σ_θ(ri) = p × (r_o^2 + r_i^2) / (r_o^2 − r_i^2)

Question 7

Composite torsional shaft: Equivalent torsional spring constant for two serial segments between rigid ends.  Given two stepped portions with torsional spring constants k₁ and k₂ in series (same torque, angular twists add). Choose the correct express…

Accepted Answer

Given data Two shaft segments in series with torsional spring constants k₁ and k₂. Concept/Approach For springs in series (same torque T), total twist θ = θ₁ + θ₂ = T/k₁ + T/k₂. Step-by-step Define k_eq by T/θ = k_eq ⇒ 1/k_eq = 1/k₁ + 1/k₂.Therefore, k_eq = (k₁ k₂)/(k₁ + k₂). Verification If k₁ = k₂ = k, then k_eq = k/2 (softer than either alone), which is consistent for series combination. Final Answer k_eq = (k₁ k₂)/(k₁ + k₂)

Question 8

Strength of materials—bars under self-weight: What is the ratio of the elongation of a conical bar due to its own weight to that of a prismatic bar of the same material and length (both hanging vertically)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Bars hanging under their own weight elongate because the internal axial force increases toward the support. The distribution of cross-sectional area changes the strain distribution. This problem compares a conical (linearly tapered) bar to a prismatic (constant area) bar, a classical result in strength of materials. Given Data / Assumptions: Both bars have the same length L and material properties (density rho and modulus E). Bars hang vertically; weight density is rho * g. Conical bar area varies as A(y) = A0 * (1 - y/L)^2, y from the top. Self-weight only; no external tip load. Concept / Approach: Total elongation is the integral of axial strain along the length. At a distance y from the top, axial force equals the weight of the portion below: W(y) = rho * g * ∫(y to L) A(s) ds. Strain(y) = stress/E = [W(y) / A(y)] / E. Integrate strain from 0 to L. Step-by-Step Solution: Prismatic bar: A(y) = A0.Force at y: Wp(y) = rho * g * A0 * (L - y).Strain: ep(y) = [rho * g * (L - y)] / E.Elongation: δp = ∫(0→L) ep(y) dy = (rho * g / E) * [L^2 / 2] = rho * g * L^2 / (2E).Conical bar: A(y) = A0 * (1 - y/L)^2.Weight below y: Wc(y) = rho * g * ∫(y→L) A0 * (1 - s/L)^2 ds.Strain: ec(y) = [Wc(y) / A(y)] / E.Integrating yields δc = rho * g * L^2 / (6E).Ratio δc / δp = (1/6) / (1/2) = 1/3. Verification / Alternative check: Since the conical bar is thicker near the support (where forces are higher), it stretches less than a prismatic bar; a ratio less than 1 is expected. 1/3 matches this intuition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1/2, 2/3, 3/2, and 1 contradict the derived integral result and the physical trend. Common Pitfalls: Using average weight or confusing area variation; forgetting that self-weight force varies along the length and must be integrated. Final Answer: 1/3

Question 9

Power transmission design: The maximum twisting moment a circular shaft can safely resist equals the permissible shear stress multiplied by which geometric property?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: For shafts under torsion, the torsional strength depends on material strength (allowable shear stress) and a geometry-dependent property. Recognizing the correct property is essential for sizing shafts in mechanical and civil applications (e.g., hoists, drives, and rotating machinery). Given Data / Assumptions: Elastic torsion theory applies. Allowable shear stress is τ_allow. Geometric properties include J (polar moment) and Zp (polar section modulus). Concept / Approach: Torsion formula: τ_max = T * r / J. Rearranging gives T = τ_max * (J / r). The quotient (J / r) is the polar section modulus Zp. Hence the safe torque equals τ_allow * Zp. Step-by-Step Solution: Start with τ = T * r / J.At allowable stress: τ_allow = T_allow * r / J.Therefore T_allow = τ_allow * (J / r) = τ_allow * Zp. Verification / Alternative check: For a solid circular shaft, J = (π d^4) / 32 and r = d/2, so Zp = J/r = (π d^3) / 16. Using this in T_allow = τ_allow * (π d^3) / 16 matches standard design tables. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Area moment of inertia and polar moment J alone do not directly give torque capacity without dividing by r.Modulus of rigidity G affects angle of twist, not ultimate torque.Section area is not the governing torsion property. Common Pitfalls: Confusing J (polar moment) with Zp (polar section modulus). Zp is the correct multiplier with τ_allow for maximum safe torque. Final Answer: Polar section modulus (polar modulus)

Question 10

For a cantilever beam of length L subjected to a pure couple M applied at the free end, what is the vertical deflection at the free end in terms of E and I?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Beam deflection under various boundary conditions is a staple in structural analysis. A cantilever subjected to a tip moment M experiences constant bending moment along its length, leading to a characteristic deflection and rotation profile. Given Data / Assumptions: Cantilever length L, modulus E, second moment I. Pure end couple M at the free tip; no shear or point load. Small-deflection, linear elastic theory applies. Concept / Approach: Euler–Bernoulli beam theory: d^2y/dx^2 = M(x)/(E I). For a tip couple, M(x) = M is constant. Integrate twice with boundary conditions at the fixed end (deflection and slope zero at x = 0). Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Curvature: d^2y/dx^2 = M / (E I).2) Integrate once: dy/dx = (M / (E I)) * x + C1.3) Fixed end slope at x = 0 ⇒ C1 = 0.4) Integrate again: y = (M / (E I)) * x^2 / 2 + C2.5) Fixed end deflection at x = 0 ⇒ C2 = 0.6) Free end deflection: y(L) = M * L^2 / (2 * E * I). Verification / Alternative check: Dimensional check: M has units of forcelength; multiplying by L^2 and dividing by EI (force/area * length^4) yields length, consistent for deflection. Why Other Options Are Wrong: M * L / (E I) is the rotation at the free end, not the deflection.Formulas with 1/3 or L^3 apply to different loading (uniform loads or tip forces), not a pure couple.Zero contradicts bending theory. Common Pitfalls: Mixing tip load and tip moment cases; forgetting fixed-end boundary conditions. Final Answer: M * L^2 / (2 * E * I)

Question 11

Riveted joints: For a diamond riveting pattern in a plate, the weakest net section typically passes through which row of rivet holes?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Determining the weakest section in riveted joints is essential for safe design. In diamond riveting, the rivet count reduces stepwise toward the ends, and the net section (gross minus holes) governs tensile failure. Given Data / Assumptions: Diamond pattern (progressive reduction of rivets). Plates in tension; failure by net-section tearing is possible. Uniform plate material and hole sizes. Concept / Approach: The weakest section is the one with the least net area. In diamond riveting, near the ends there are fewer parallel rows, creating narrower net paths through the first row. Thus, the critical section commonly passes through the first row of holes where the minimum net cross-section often occurs. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify gross section and subtract hole areas along possible failure lines.2) Compare net sections across rows; the end zones (first row) provide the least metal remaining.3) Conclude that the first-row section is typically the weakest in diamond riveting. Verification / Alternative check: Textbook examples of diamond riveting show net-section computations with the smallest net area through the first row, confirming design practice to reinforce ends or adjust pitch/hole layout. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Second/central rows generally retain more parallel load paths and hence larger net area.“One hole of end row only” does not fully represent the governing section in standard layouts. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring stagger efficiency and assuming the central row is always critical; in diamond patterns, end rows are often weaker. Final Answer: First row

Question 12

In structural analysis using the transformed section method, a reinforced concrete (R.C.) beam is treated as which of the following for the purpose of flexural analysis?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Reinforced concrete combines steel and concrete. For bending calculations in working stress or similar methods, engineers often use the transformed section method to simplify analysis. Given Data / Assumptions: Concrete and steel are perfectly bonded. Linear strain distribution applies. Steel area is transformed into an equivalent concrete area using modular ratio m = Es/Ec. Concept / Approach: Although R.C. is physically heterogeneous, the method converts the composite section into an equivalent homogeneous section of a single material (typically concrete). Bending stresses are then computed using standard homogeneous beam theory. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Compute modular ratio m = Es / Ec.2) Replace steel area As by m * As of concrete area.3) Determine neutral axis and section properties on the transformed (homogeneous) section.4) Use flexure formula to find stresses in concrete and steel (back-transform for steel). Verification / Alternative check: The approach reproduces classic R.C. design results for elastic behavior and service load checks, validating the “equivalent homogeneous” treatment for analysis. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B ignores the standard analytical simplification and complicates calculations.Options C, D, and E misrepresent the composite nature or standard modeling assumptions. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to back-calculate actual steel stress after using transformed areas; mixing up Es and Ec values in the modular ratio. Final Answer: Homogeneous material (via transformed section)

Question 13

Columns: Determine the slenderness ratio for a prismatic vertical column of square cross-section 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm and length 300 cm (assume pin-ended and use the least radius of gyration).

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Slenderness ratio is a key parameter in column design and stability checks. It relates the effective length to the least radius of gyration and indicates the tendency to buckle under axial compression. Given Data / Assumptions: Square section: side b = 2.5 cm. Length L = 300 cm; assume pin-ended, so effective length Le = L. Use least radius of gyration r for the cross-section. Concept / Approach: Slenderness ratio λ = Le / r. For a square of side b, the radius of gyration about centroidal axis is r = b / sqrt(12). The least r equals this value for a square (same about both principal centroidal axes). Step-by-Step Solution: Compute r = b / sqrt(12) = 2.5 / sqrt(12) cm.sqrt(12) ≈ 3.464; r ≈ 2.5 / 3.464 ≈ 0.722 cm.Slenderness λ = Le / r = 300 / 0.722 ≈ 415.8.Rounded to nearest option: 416. Verification / Alternative check: Check units: Le (cm) divided by r (cm) yields a pure number, matching a dimensionless slenderness ratio. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 200, 240, 360, and 500 do not match the computed ratio given the provided dimensions and assumptions. Common Pitfalls: Using radius of gyration formula for a rectangle incorrectly; forgetting to use the least radius; mixing length units (cm vs m). Final Answer: 416

Question 14

In structural engineering, for a simply supported beam carrying a central load, where does the bending moment reach its maximum value and where is it least?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: A simply supported beam is one of the most common structural members studied in strength of materials. Understanding bending moment distribution under various load cases is critical for safe design. Given Data / Assumptions: Simply supported beam with span L. Single concentrated load W at mid-span. Supports are idealized as pin and roller. Concept / Approach: For symmetric loading, reactions at both supports equal W/2. The bending moment at a section x from one support is M(x) = (W/2) * x for 0 ≤ x ≤ L/2. This increases linearly up to the mid-span. Maximum occurs at mid-span, then decreases symmetrically. Step-by-Step Solution: Reaction at each support = W/2.Bending moment at mid-span = (W/2) * (L/2) = WL/4.Moment at supports = 0.Thus, maximum bending moment occurs at the centre, minimum at the supports. Verification / Alternative check: Plotting the bending moment diagram shows a triangular distribution with apex at mid-span, confirming the result. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Least at centre: incorrect, it is maximum there. Maximum at supports: false, bending moment is zero at supports. Least at supports: true, but incomplete, as the maximum is at centre. Common Pitfalls: Confusing shear force diagram with bending moment diagram. Forgetting symmetry of load distribution. Final Answer: maximum at the centre

Question 15

For a material with Young’s modulus E = 200 GN/m² and modulus of rigidity G = 80 GN/m², what is the value of Poisson’s ratio (μ)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Poisson’s ratio is a key elastic constant that relates lateral strain to longitudinal strain in materials. It can be derived from the relationship between Young’s modulus (E) and shear modulus (G). Given Data / Assumptions: E = 200 GN/m². G = 80 GN/m². Isotropic, homogeneous, linearly elastic material. Concept / Approach: The relation between E, G, and μ is:E = 2 * G * (1 + μ) Rearranging: μ = (E / (2 * G)) - 1 Step-by-Step Solution: μ = (200 / (2 * 80)) - 1= (200 / 160) - 1= 1.25 - 1= 0.25 Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check using bulk modulus relation: E = 3K(1 - 2μ). Substituting μ = 0.25 maintains consistency for isotropic elasticity. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 0.15, 0.20: underestimate value. 0.30, 0.40: overestimate value. Common Pitfalls: Using wrong formula (mixing with bulk modulus relation). Incorrect unit handling (ensure consistency in GN/m²). Final Answer: 0.25

Question 16

In strength of materials, the radius of gyration of a rectangular section is not proportional to which of the following expressions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The radius of gyration (k) is an important geometric property used in buckling and structural stability calculations. It links the moment of inertia (I) to the cross-sectional area (A). Given Data / Assumptions: Rectangular cross-section. Radius of gyration definition: k = sqrt(I / A). I and A are in consistent units. Concept / Approach: From definition: k = sqrt(I / A). Therefore, k is proportional to sqrt(I) and inversely proportional to sqrt(A). It is not proportional to sqrt(1/A) alone, because I must also be considered. Step-by-Step Solution: Start with k = sqrt(I / A).Break down: k ∝ sqrt(I) and k ∝ 1 / sqrt(A).Thus, any expression ignoring I (like sqrt(1/A)) is not correct. Verification / Alternative check: For a rectangle b × d, I = bd^3 / 12. Substituting confirms k depends on both I and A, not A alone. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Square root of moment of inertia: partly correct, as I is included. Square root of I/A: correct by definition. None of these: incorrect, since one option is truly wrong. Common Pitfalls: Confusing proportionalities; radius of gyration is not just a function of area or inertia alone. Final Answer: square root of the inverse of the area

Question 17

A rectangular beam 20 cm wide carries a maximum shear force of 10,000 kg. If the corresponding maximum shear stress is 30 kg/cm², what is the depth of the beam?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Shear stress distribution in beams is non-uniform. For rectangular sections, the maximum shear stress is related to the average shear stress by a factor of 1.5. This principle is used to calculate the unknown dimension of a beam under load. Given Data / Assumptions: Width (b) = 20 cm. Shear force (V) = 10,000 kg. Maximum shear stress (τmax) = 30 kg/cm². Material assumed homogeneous and elastic. Concept / Approach: Formula for maximum shear stress in a rectangle: τmax = 1.5 * V / (b * d) Rearranging: d = 1.5 * V / (b * τmax) Step-by-Step Solution: τmax = 30 kg/cm².V = 10,000 kg.b = 20 cm.d = (1.5 * 10,000) / (20 * 30) = 15,000 / 600 = 25 cm. Verification / Alternative check: Check average shear stress = V / (b * d) = 10,000 / (20 * 25) = 20 kg/cm². Maximum shear stress = 1.5 × 20 = 30 kg/cm², which matches given data. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 15 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm: do not satisfy the shear stress relation. Common Pitfalls: Using average shear stress formula instead of maximum shear stress for rectangular sections. Final Answer: 25 cm

Question 18

In torsion of circular shafts, the shear stress distribution is maximum at which location within the shaft cross-section?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Torsion in circular shafts creates a shear stress distribution that is linear from the centre to the outer surface. Knowing where maximum shear occurs is important for safe shaft design in machines and structures. Given Data / Assumptions: Solid circular shaft. Radius = r. Torque applied = T. Concept / Approach: Shear stress in torsion is given by: τ = (T * r) / J where J is the polar moment of inertia. Since τ ∝ radius, maximum occurs at r (outer surface). Step-by-Step Solution: At centre (r = 0), τ = 0.At half radius (r/2), τ = 0.5 τmax.At full radius (r), τ = τmax.Thus maximum shear occurs at the surface. Verification / Alternative check: Finite element torsion models confirm that shear stress is linear from axis to circumference. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Centre: stress = 0. r/2: stress is half maximum. 3/4 r: stress is 0.75 τmax, not maximum. None: incorrect, since maximum is clearly at surface. Common Pitfalls: Assuming uniform shear across section; in torsion it is linear. Final Answer: at the top of the surface

Question 19

For a beam subjected to a uniformly distributed load (UDL) along its entire span, what is the general shape of the bending moment diagram?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Bending moment diagrams (BMD) graphically represent internal bending moments along the length of a beam. Their shape depends on the loading condition. Correctly sketching BMD is a key skill in structural analysis. Given Data / Assumptions: Beam loaded with a uniformly distributed load (UDL). Supports are simple (pinned/roller). No additional concentrated loads. Concept / Approach: The relationship between load (w), shear force (V), and bending moment (M) is:dV/dx = -w, dM/dx = V. For a constant w, V varies linearly and M varies quadratically, hence parabolic. Step-by-Step Solution: Start with shear force distribution: linear.Integrate shear force: bending moment curve = parabolic.Maximum moment occurs at mid-span. Verification / Alternative check: For span L and UDL intensity w, maximum bending moment at mid-span = wL² / 8, matching the parabolic curve. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Linear: corresponds to point load cases, not UDL. Cubical or circular: not relevant to BMD derivations. Common Pitfalls: Confusing shear force shape with bending moment shape. Final Answer: parabolic

Question 20

In steel connection design, if the rivets in adjacent rows are staggered and the outermost row contains only a single rivet, what is this rivet arrangement called?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In structural steelwork and plate fabrication, rivet (or bolt) arrangements control how forces are transferred and how cracks or tears propagate. Knowing standard patterns such as chain, zig-zag, and diamond riveting is essential for safe detailing and for interpreting drawings in civil and mechanical engineering. Given Data / Assumptions: Adjacent rows are staggered. The outermost row has only a single rivet at the end. Arrangement name is required from standard terminology. Concept / Approach: Common patterns are:• Chain riveting: rivets in adjacent rows line up vertically.• Zig-zag riveting: rivets in adjacent rows are staggered but each row contains a similar count across the width.• Diamond riveting: staggered pattern that tapers, reducing the number of rivets toward the edge so that the outermost row has only one rivet, creating a diamond-like outline. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify staggered rows → rules out chain riveting.Check if edge rows keep same count as inner rows → if not, zig-zag alone is insufficient.Tapered count with a single rivet in the outermost row matches the characteristic diamond profile → diamond riveting. Verification / Alternative check: Standard steel design texts illustrate diamond riveting where rivet density is greatest at the member centerline and reduces toward edges, culminating in a single rivet at the outermost row. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Chain riveting: requires rows to be in straight alignment, not staggered. Zig-zag riveting: staggered, but typically without the terminal single-rivet taper. None of these: incorrect because 'diamond riveting' exactly fits the described geometry. Common Pitfalls: Confusing generic stagger (zig-zag) with the tapered end condition unique to diamond patterns. Assuming any stagger equals zig-zag without checking edge row counts. Final Answer: diamond riveting

Strength of Materials Questions