Strength of materials: definition of strain energy stored in a loaded member Consider a ductile or brittle specimen stressed within the elastic limit. Choose the statement that correctly defines strain energy.
Mechanical Engineering
Strength of Materials
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AEnergy stored in a body when strained within elastic limits
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BEnergy stored in a body when strained up to fracture of the specimen
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CMaximum possible strain energy that a body can store
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DProof resilience per unit volume of a material
Answer
Correct Answer: Energy stored in a body when strained within elastic limits
Explanation
Given/ConceptStrain energy is the elastic energy stored in a member due to deformation under load, provided the loading is within the elastic limit so that unloading would recover the energy.
Clarifications• Strain energy (general) ≠ maximum strain energy (that is proof resilience for a body).• Proof resilience per unit volume is a specific quantity (area under the stress–strain curve up to the elastic limit divided by volume), not the general definition.
Final AnswerEnergy stored in a body when strained within elastic limits.