Quiz SM201

Axial loads
Lucas Montogue
X Problems
Problem 1A (Gere & Goodno, 2009, w/ permission)
A rectangular bar of length L has a slot in the middle half of its length, as
shown. The bar has width b, thickness t, and modulus of elasticity E. Obtain a formula
for the elongation 𝛿𝛿 of the bar due to the axial loads P.

A) 𝛿𝛿 = (4𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃)⁄(5𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸)
B) 𝛿𝛿 = (7𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃)⁄(6𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸)
C) 𝛿𝛿 = (3𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃)⁄(2𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸)
D) 𝛿𝛿 = (9𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃)⁄(4𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸)

Problem 1B
Calculate the elongation of the bar if the material is high-strength steel (E =
200 GPa), the axial stress in the middle region is 160 MPa, the length is 750 mm, and
the modulus of elasticity is 210 GPa.
A) 𝛿𝛿 = 0.500 mm
B) 𝛿𝛿 = 0.750 mm
C) 𝛿𝛿 = 1.000 mm
D) 𝛿𝛿 = 1.250 mm

Problem 2 (Beer et al., 2012, w/ permission)

The vertical load P is applied at the center A of the upper section of a
homogeneous frustum of a circular cone of height h, minimum radius a, and
maximum radius b. Denoting by E the modulus of elasticity of the material and
neglecting the effect of its weight, determine the deflection of point A.

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 𝑃𝑃ℎ
A) 𝛿𝛿 =
2𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋
𝑃𝑃ℎ
B) 𝛿𝛿 =
𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋
𝑃𝑃ℎ
C) 𝛿𝛿 =
𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋(𝑏𝑏2 −𝑎𝑎2 )
𝑃𝑃ℎ
D) 𝛿𝛿 =
𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋(𝑏𝑏−𝑎𝑎)2

Problem 3 (Hibbeler, 2014, w/ permission)

Bone material has a stress-strain diagram that can be defined by the relation
𝜎𝜎 = 𝐸𝐸[𝜀𝜀⁄(1 + 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘)], where k and E are constants. Determine the compression
within the length L of the bone, where it is assumed that the cross-sectional area A of
the bone is constant.

Problem 4 (Gere & Goodno, 2009, w/ permission)

A bar ABC revolves in a horizontal plane about a vertical axis at the midpoint
C (see figure). The bar, which has length 2L and cross-sectional area A, revolves at a
constant angular speed 𝜔𝜔. Each half of the bar (AC and BC) has a weight 𝑊𝑊1 and
supports a weight 𝑊𝑊2 at its end. Derive a formula for the elongation of one-half of the
bar (that is, the elongation of either AC or BC). Denote the modulus of elasticity of the
material that constitutes the bar and the acceleration of gravity as E and g,
respectively.

Problem 5A (Steif, 2012, w/ permission)

The bar of uniform elastic modulus E has a step in diameter as shown, and is
subjected to an axial force of F0 acting at the shoulder. Determine the displacement of
the cross-section located midway between B and C. Use the following dimensions and
properties: F0 = 10 kN, E = 200 GPa, LBC = 300 mm, DAB = 15 mm, and DBC = 25 mm.

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A) |𝛿𝛿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 | = 4.8 μm
B) |𝛿𝛿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 | = 9.9 μm
C) |𝛿𝛿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 | = 15.7 μm
D) |𝛿𝛿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 | = 22.6 μm

Problem 5B
Determine the lengths of the individual segments LAB and LBC of the bar if the
total length LAB + LBC = 18 in. and the stress in the right section is to have half the stress
in the left section. Use as diameters dAB = 0.75 in. and dBC = 1 in.
A) LAB = 2 in. and LBC = 16 in.
B) LAB = 3 in. and LBC = 15 in.
C) LAB = 6 in. and LBC = 12 in.
D) LAB = 12 in. and LBC = 6 in.

Problem 6 (Hibbeler, 2014, w/ permission)

The assembly consists of an aluminum member and a red brass member that
rest on rigid plates. Determine the distance d where the vertical load P should be
placed on the plates so that the plates remain horizontal when the materials deform.
Each member has a width of 8 in.

A) d = 2.7 in.
B) d = 4.9 in.
C) d = 6.8 in.
D) d = 8.3 in.

Problem 7 (Philpot, 2013, w/ permission)

In the following figure, aluminum (E = 70 GPa) links (1) and (2) support rigid
beam ABC. Link (1) has a cross-sectional area of 300 mm2 and link (2) has a cross-
sectional area of 450 mm2. For an applied load of P = 55 kN, determine the rigid beam
deflection at point B.

A) 𝜈𝜈𝐵𝐵 = 1.14 mm
B) 𝜈𝜈𝐵𝐵 = 2.48 mm
C) 𝜈𝜈𝐵𝐵 = 3.69 mm
D) 𝜈𝜈𝐵𝐵 = 4.55 mm

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Problem 8 (Philpot, 2013, w/ permission)

The rigid beam shown is supported by links (1) and (2), which are made from a
polymer material (E = 16 GPa). Link (1) has a cross-sectional area of 400 mm2, and link
(2) has a cross-sectional area of 800 mm2. Determine the maximum load P that may
be applied if the deflection of the beam is not to exceed 20 mm at point C.

A) 𝑃𝑃 = 18.4 kN
B) 𝑃𝑃 = 36.5 kN
C) 𝑃𝑃 = 55.2 kN
D) 𝑃𝑃 = 77.3 kN

Problem 9 (Hibbeler, 2014, w/ permission)

The center post B of the assembly has an original length of 124.7 mm, while
posts A and C have a length of 125 mm. If the caps on the top and bottom can be
considered rigid, determine the average normal stress in each post. What is the
difference Δ𝜎𝜎 between the normal stress at posts A or C and that of post B? The posts
are made of aluminum and have a cross-sectional area of 400 mm2. Use EAl = 70 GPa.

A) Δ𝜎𝜎 = [0 ; 25) MPa

B) Δ𝜎𝜎 = [25 ; 50) MPa
C) Δ𝜎𝜎 = [50 ; 75) MPa
D) Δ𝜎𝜎 =[75 ; +∞) MPa

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Problem 10 (Philpot, 2013, w/ permission)
A uniformly distributed load w is supported by a structure consisting of rigid
bar BDF and three rods, as shown in the next figure. Rods (1) and (2) are 15-mm-
diameter stainless steel rods that have an elastic modulus E = 193 GPa and a yield
strength 𝜎𝜎𝑌𝑌 = 330 MPa. Use a = 1.5 m and L = 3 m. If a minimum factor of safety of 2.5 is
specified for the normal stress in each rod, calculate the maximum distributed load
magnitude w that may be supported.

A) 𝑤𝑤 = 20.4 kN/m
B) 𝑤𝑤 = 30.6 kN/m
C) 𝑤𝑤 = 40.5 kN/m
D) 𝑤𝑤 = 50.3 kN/m

Problem 11 (Beer et al., 2012, w/ permission)

At room temperature (20oC), a 0.5-mm gap exists between the ends of the
rods shown. At a later time, when the temperature has reached 140oC, determine the
elongation of the aluminum rod. Use Est = 200 GPa and EAl = 70 GPa.

A) 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴 = 0.102 mm
B) 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴 = 0.215 mm
C) 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴 = 0.371 mm
D) 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴 = 0.494 mm

Problem 12 (Hibbeler, 2014, w/ permission)

If the assembly fits snugly between the two supports A and C when the
temperature is at 𝑇𝑇1 , determine the normal stress developed in segment BC when the
temperature rises to 𝑇𝑇2 (such that 𝑇𝑇2 > 𝑇𝑇1 ). Both segments are made of the same
material having a modulus of elasticity E and coefficient of thermal expansion 𝛼𝛼. The
flexible supports at A and C each have a stiffness k.

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Problem 13 (Hibbeler, 2014, w/ permission)
The device is used to measure a change in temperature. Bars AB and CD are
made of steel and aluminum, respectively. When the temperature is at 75oF, ACE is in
the horizontal position. Determine the vertical displacement of the pointer at E when
the temperature rises to 150oF. Take the coefficients of thermal expansion 𝛼𝛼st = 6.6 ×
10−6 oF-1 and 𝛼𝛼Al = 12.8 × 10−6 oF-1.

A) 𝛿𝛿𝐸𝐸 = 0.0039 in.

B) 𝛿𝛿𝐸𝐸 = 0.0067 in.
C) 𝛿𝛿𝐸𝐸 = 0.0098 in.
D) 𝛿𝛿𝐸𝐸 = 0.0126 in.

Problem 14 (Hibbeler, 2014, w/ permission)

A torch causes concentrated heating of the central portion of a bar that is
initially unstressed at uniform temperature. The bar has uniform properties E, A, 𝛼𝛼,
and length 2L. Approximate the remaining structure to which the ends are attached
as rigid and immovable. Say the heating causes the bar’s temperature to increase by
an amount

 x
∆T =∆T0 exp  − 
 c
where x is the distance from the center and parameter c captures the length of the
heated zone. Determine the compressive stress in the bar as a function of the
parameters.

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X SOLUTIONS
P.1 c Solution
Part A: The bar can be divided into three segments, namely, two prismatic
segments of length L/2 and a slotted segment of length L/2, as shown.

Since the system is one of simple axial loading, the elongation of the bar is
simply the sum of the elongations of each segment; mathematically,

 PL 
δ = ∑ i i

 Ei Ai 
where P is the force applied on the i-th segment, EI is the modulus of elasticity of the
material, and AI is its cross-sectional area. Summing the elongations associated with
each segment, we obtain

P × ( L 4) P × ( L 2) P × ( L 4)
δ= + +
E × ( bt )  3  E × ( bt )
E ×  bt 
4 
PL 2 PL PL
δ
∴= + +
4 Ebt 3Ebt 4 Ebt
PL  1 2 1 
∴δ
=  + + 
Ebt  4 3 4 

7 PL
∴δ =
6 Ebt

J The correct answer is B.

Part B: The stress in the middle region can be easily determined from the P/A
ratio,

P P 4P P 3σ
σ= = = → =
A  3  3bt bt 4
 bt 
4 
Manipulating the expression for elongation obtained above, we have

7 PL 7 L  P  7 L  3σ 
δ= = ×  = × 
6 Ebt 6 E  bt  6 E  4 
7σ L
∴δ =
8E
Substituting the pertaining variables with the numerical data we were given,
it follows that

7σ L 7 ×160 × 750
=δ = = 0.500 mm
8E 8 × 210, 000
The bar will deform by one half of a millimeter.
J The correct answer is A.

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P.2 c Solution
Consider the following illustration of the cone frustum.

The deflection of point A, uA, is the overall deformation of the member, 𝛿𝛿.
Such a deformation is determined with the usual formula 𝛿𝛿 = 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃⁄𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 ; however, the
section of the body varies vertically from the upper cross-section to the lower cross-
section. In this case, the deformation is given by

P h dy
E ∫0 A ( y )
δ= (I)

We must determine the variation of cross-sectional area A with the vertical

position. The area Ay in an arbitrary section of the body, as shown above, is

( )
2 2
Ay = π × CD′ + D′D
π × CD = (II)

𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶′ = a. Determining �����

Clearly, ����� 𝐷𝐷′𝐷𝐷 is a little more involved. Refer to triangle
A’E’E below.

From similar triangles,

E ′E A′E ′
=
D′D A′D′
However, �����
𝐸𝐸′𝐸𝐸 = b – a, ������
𝐴𝐴′𝐸𝐸′ = h, and ������
𝐴𝐴′𝐷𝐷′ = h – y. Substituting, we get

E ′E A′E ′ b−a h
= → =
D′D A′D′ D′D h − y
1
∴ D′D = ( b − a )( h − y )
h
Returning to the equation for Ay, (II), we have
2 2
 (b − a )   ( a − b) 
Ay = A ( y ) = π  a + ( h − y )  = π b + y
 h   h 
This equation provides the area of the frustum’s cross-section as a function of
y. We now have all the information we need to determine the deformation from
equation (I). Thus,

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 P h 1 P h 1
=δ =∫
E 0 A( y)
dy
E ∫0  (a − b) 
2
dy
π b + y
 h 
y =h
 
 
Ph  1  Ph  1 1
∴δ
= − =  − +
π E ( a − b)   ( a − b )   π E (b − a)  a b 
b+ y
  h   y =0


Ph  a −b 
∴δ =  
(
π E a − b  ab  )
Ph
∴δ =
π Eab
J The correct answer is B.

P.3 c Solution
The normal stress and the strain are respectively defined as

P δx
=σ = ; ε
A dx
We can adjust the relationship we were given for axial stress,

δx
E
 ε  P dx
=σ E = →
 1 + kEε  A 1 + kE δ x
dx
P PkE  δ x  δx 
∴ +  = E 
A A  dx   dx 
P  PkE  δ x 
∴ = E−  
A  A  dx 
L P δ
∴∫ ∫ δx
dx =
0  Pk  0
AE 1 − 
 A 

Evaluating the integrals on both sides, we conclude that

L P δ PL
∫0  Pk 
dx
= ∫
0
δ x →=
δ
 Pk 
AE 1 −  AE 1 − 
 A   A 
PL
∴δ =
E ( A − Pk )

Note that the deformation, in this case, is not given by the simple force-
displacement relationship 𝛿𝛿 = 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃⁄𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸, because the cross-section area A, albeit
constant, is replaced by the factor (A – Pk). Assuming that k is a positive constant, we
surmise that the deformation would be smaller than the compression expected for a
member with a linear stress-strain relation 𝜎𝜎 = 𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸.

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P.4 c Solution
Consider segment CB illustrated below.

F(x) is the axial force in the bar at a distance x from the center of rotation,
point C. To find such a force, we must obtain the inertia force of the part of the bar
from distance x to distance L and the inertia force of the weight 𝑊𝑊2. Noting that the
inertia force varies with the distance from point C, we take an element of length d𝜉𝜉 at
a distance 𝜉𝜉 from this point (see above). The mass of element d𝜉𝜉 is

dξ W 
ξ
Mass of element d= × 1 
L  g 
The element in question has acceleration 𝜉𝜉𝜔𝜔2 , and, consequently, the
centrifugal force produced by the element is

d ξW1
mass × acceleration =
dF = × ξω 2
gL
W1ω 2
∴ dF = ξ d ξ
gL

The centrifugal force produced by weight 𝑊𝑊2, in turn, is such that

 W2  W2 Lω 2
FW2 =   × Lω =
2

 g  g

Accordingly, axial force F(x) is the sum of the centrifugal force due to the bar
and that owing to weight 𝑊𝑊2; that is,

ξ =L W1ω 2 W Lω 2
=F ( x) ∫ξ ξ dξ + 2
=x gL g
ξ =L
W ω2 ξ 2 W2 Lω 2
( x) 1
∴ F= +
gL 2 ξ =x
g

W1ω 2 2 W Lω 2
( x)
∴ F=
2 gL
( L − x2 ) + 2
g

Having established force F(x), we can determine the elongation of the bar
with the force-displacement relation 𝛿𝛿 = 𝐹𝐹(𝑥𝑥)𝐿𝐿⁄𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 , as follows,

1  L W1ω 2 2 L W Lω
2

=δ  ∫0 2
EA  gL
( L − x 2
) dx + ∫0
2
g
dx 

1 W1ω 2  L 2  + 1 W2 Lω
2
L

 ∫0 ∫
=∴δ ( L − x 2
) dx dx

EA 2 gL   EA g
0

= 2 L3 3

1 W1ω 2 2 L3 1 W2 L2ω 2
∴δ
= × +
EA 2 gL 3 EA g
W1ω 2 L2 W2ω 2 L2
∴δ
= +
3 gEA gEA

ω 2 L2
∴δ
= (W1 + 3W2 )
3 gEA

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 Clearly, the deformation of the member is substantially proportional to the
angular velocity of the structure (doubling it would increase the deformation four-
fold), and more dependent on weight 𝑊𝑊2 than on the weight of the bar segment.

P.5 c Solution
Part A: The free-body diagram of the bar is shown below.

Applying an equilibrium of forces in the horizontal direction gives

F0 F0
FA − 0
− − FC =
2 2
0
∴ FA − F0 − FC =
10 (I)
∴ FA − FC =

since F0 = 10 kN. In view of the fact that this the only feasible equation of equilibrium
from elementary statics, the system is statically indeterminate. As a compatibility
equation, we can state that the deformation of the bar, 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 , is such that

δ AC =→
0 δ AB + δ BC =0

Here, 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 is the deformation of segment AB and 𝛿𝛿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 is the deformation of

segment BC. For axial loading, such deformations can be determined with the usual
relationship 𝛿𝛿 = 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹 ⁄𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴; that is,

FA LAB FC LBC
δ AB + δ BC =→
0 + =0
AAB E ABC E
FA LAB FC LBC
∴ + 0
=
AAB ABC

Factor E cancels out because both segments of the bar are made of the same
material. Substituting other pertaining variables, we get

FA × 200 F × 300
+ C 0
=
 π ×15   π × 252 
2

   
 4   4 
∴1.13FA + 0.61FC =
0 (II)

Equations (I) and (II) can be solved simultaneously for FA and FC, yielding FA =
3.51 kN and FC = −6.49 kN. (The negative sign means that FC is a compressive force.)
We are now able to compute the displacement of the cross-section located midway
between B and C,

FC × ( LAB 2 ) 6490 × 300 2

δ BC
= = =×1000 9.9 μm
ABC E  π × 252 
  × 200, 000
 4 
The deformation of the midway section will be close to 10 micrometers.
J The correct answer is B.

Part B: The free-body diagram for the bar is shown below.

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 Since the bar is fixed at both ends, the total deformation along the shaft
equals zero; mathematically,

δ AB + δ BC =
0

where 𝛿𝛿𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 and 𝛿𝛿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 are the deformations in sections AB and BC, respectively. For a
material in the elastic regime, Hooke’s law can be written as 𝜎𝜎 = 𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸; since the strain 𝜀𝜀
is related to deformation by the relationship 𝜀𝜀 = 𝛿𝛿 ⁄𝐿𝐿, it follows that 𝜎𝜎 = 𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸 ⁄𝐿𝐿, or

Eδ σL
σ= → δ=
L E
Backsubstituting in the sum of deformations, we obtain

δ AB + δ BC =→
0
σ AB LAB
+
( −σ BC ) LBC =0
E E
σ AB LAB σ BC LBC
∴ − =0
E E
∴σ AB LAB =
σ BC LBC
σ AB LBC
∴ =
σ BC LAB

A negative sign accompanies 𝜎𝜎𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 because we are assuming that the stress in
segment BC is compressive. Young’s modulus E cancels out because both segments
are made of the same material. Since the stress in the right section must equal half
the stress in the left section, we have 𝜎𝜎𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 ⁄𝜎𝜎𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 = 2 and, consequently,

σ AB LBC
= = 2
σ BC LAB
2 LAB
∴ LBC =

We know that the sum of segments AB and BC must equal 18 in., or, in
mathematical terms, 𝐿𝐿𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 + 𝐿𝐿𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 = 18. Accordingly,

18
LAB + LBC =
∴ LAB + ( 2 LAB ) =
18
∴ 3LAB =
18

6 in.
∴ LAB =

In turn, LBC = 12 in. The length of the segment with smaller diameter is 6
inches, while that of the segment with larger diameter is 12 inches.
J The correct answer is C.

P.6 c Solution
Summing forces in the vertical direction, we obtain

ΣFy = 0 → − P + FAl + FRB = 0 (I)

where FAl is the force exerted on the aluminum plate, and FRB is the force on the red brass
plate. Taking moments about point O (see below), we have

ΣM O = 0 → 3FAl + 7.5 FRB − P × d = 0

∴ 3FAl + 7.5 FRB =×
P d (II)

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 These are the only equations we can infer from statics. To formulate a
compatibility equation, note that, if the plates are to remain horizontal when the bars
are acted upon by load P, their deformations should be the same. Mathematically,

δ RB − δ Al =0 → δ RB =δ Al

Applying the formula 𝛿𝛿 = 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹 ⁄𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴, we see that

FRB L F L
δ RB
= δ Al → = Al
ARB ERB AAl EAl
FRB FAl
∴ =
ARB ERB AAl EAl
FAl
∴ FRB
= ARB ERB ×
AAl EAl

 ARB ERB 
∴ FRB =
  FAl
 AAl EAl 
 lRB wERB 
∴ FRB =
  FAl
 lAl wEAl 
 lRB ERB 
∴ FRB =
  FAl
 lAl EAl 
where l and w are dimensions of the plates’ transverse cross-section. Substituting the
pertaining variables, we get

3 × (14.6 ×103 )
=FRB = FAl → FRB 0.73FAl (III)
6 × (10 ×103 )

Substituting FRB in equation (I) gives

− P + FAl + FRB = 0 → − P + FAl + 0.73FAl = 0

1.73FAl
∴P =

Finally, backsubstituting in equation (II), we obtain

3FAl + 7.5 FRB =

P×d
∴ 3FAl + 7.5 × ( 0.73=
FAl ) (1.73FAl ) × d
Dividing by FAl on both sides, we ultimately obtain

3 + 7.5 × 0.73 =
1.73d

4.9 in.
∴d=

That is to say, the vertical load P should be placed nearly 5 inches away from
the left extremity of the structure, as seen from the perspective given in the previous
figure.
J The correct answer is B.

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P.7 c Solution
Consider the free-body diagram of the rigid beam.

The magnitude of force F1 can be determined by taking moments about point

C,

− (1400 + 800 ) × F1 + 800 × 55 =

0
20 kN
∴ F1 =

By inspection, 𝐹𝐹2 = 55 – 20 = 35 kN. The deformations in links (1) and (2) easily
follow,

F1 L1 20, 000 × 2500

δ1
= = = 2.381 mm
A1 E1 300 × 70, 000
F2 L2 35, 000 × 4000
δ2
= = = 4.444 mm
A2 E2 450 × 70, 000

Since the connections at A and C are perfect, the rigid beam deflections at
these joints are equal to the deformations of links (1) and (2), respectively,

ν=
A δ=
1 2.381 mm
ν=
C δ=
2 4.444 mm

Consider the following diagram of deformations.

The deflection at B can be determined from similar triangles,

ν C −ν A ν B −ν A
=
2200 1400
Substituting 𝜈𝜈𝐴𝐴 = 2.381 mm and 𝜈𝜈𝐶𝐶 = 4.444 mm, we obtain

4.444 − 2.381 ν B − 2.381

=
2200 1400
1400
∴ ( 4.444 − 2.381) =
ν B − 2.381
2200
ν B − 2.381
∴1.313 =

∴νB =
3.69 mm

Point B will deflect more than one third of a centimeter.

J The correct answer is C.

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P.8 c Solution
First, we consider a free-body diagram of the rigid beam and assume that
each link is under tension.

Applying the second condition of equilibrium to point A, we have

ΣM A = 0 → 600 × F2 − ( 600 + 300 ) × P = 0

∴ 600 × F2 = 900 × P
900
∴ F2 = ×P
600
1.5 P
∴ F2 =

Then, applying the first condition of equilibrium to the rigid body, we have

ΣFy = 0 → F2 − F1 − P = 0

=1.5 P

∴1.5 P − F1 − P =
0
∴ 0.5 P − F1 =0 → F1 =0.5 P

Consider a deformation diagram of the rigid beam, as illustrated below.

Using similar triangles, one way to express the relation between 𝜈𝜈𝐴𝐴 , 𝜈𝜈𝐵𝐵 , and
𝜈𝜈𝐶𝐶 is

ν A +ν C ν C −ν B
= (I)
900 300
The rigid beam deflection at A will equal the deformation that occurs in link
(1), that is,

ν A = δ1
while the deflection at B equals the deformation associated with link (2),

ν B = δ2
Backsubstituting in equation (I), we get

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 δ1 + ν C ν C − δ2 900
= → δ1 + ν C = × (ν C − δ 2 )
900 300 300
∴δ1 +ν C =3 × (ν C − δ 2 )
∴δ1 +ν C = 3ν C − 3δ 2
∴−2ν C = −δ1 − 3δ 2
∴ν C= 0.5δ1 + 1.5δ 2 (II)
The relationship between internal force and deformation comes from the
usual formula,

F1 L1 F2 L2
=δ1 = ; δ2
A1 E1 A2 E2

However, we know that F1 = 0.5P and F2 = 1.5P; consequently,

0.5 PL1 1.5 PL2

=δ1 = ; δ2
A1 E1 A2 E2

Substituting in the equation for 𝜈𝜈𝐶𝐶 , equation (II), we obtain

 0.5 PL1   1.5 PL2 

ν C = 0.5 ×   + 1.5 ×  
 A1 E1   A2 E2 
0.25 PL1 2.25 PL2  0.25 L1 2.25 L2 
∴
=νC + = P + 
A1 E1 A2 E2  A1 E1 A2 E2 

The deflection of the beam shall not exceed 20 mm at point C, i.e., 𝜈𝜈𝐶𝐶 = 20
mm at most. Substituting this variable and other pertaining quantities in the
equation above, we can determine the maximum load P,

 0.25 L1 2.25 L2  νC
=νC P  + →P
=
 A1 E1 A2 E2   0.25 L1 2.25 L2 
+
 
 A1 E1 A2 E2 
20
=∴P = 77.3 kN
 0.25 ×1000 2.25 ×1250 
 400 ×16, 000 + 800 ×16, 000 
 
The load P should be no greater than about 77 kilonewtons.
J The correct answer is D.

P.9 c Solution
Consider the following free-body diagram for the upper rigid bar.

Note that we have replaced the distributed load with a concentrated load of
intensity 800×0.2 = 160 kN acting on the middle of the rigid bar. Summing moments
about the middle of the rigid bar gives

ΣM B = 0 → − FA ×100 + FC ×100 = 0
∴ FC =
FA

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 Then, applying the first condition of equilibrium in the vertical direction, we
obtain

ΣFy =0 → FA + FB + FC − 160 =0
160
∴ FA + FB + FC =
∴ 2 FA + FB =
160 (I)

Post B has a length of 124.7 mm, while posts A and C have a length of 125 mm.
It follows that the deformation of post A should equal the deformation of post B plus
0.3 mm. In mathematical terms,

δ=
A δ B + 0.3

Applying the force-displacement relationship 𝑃𝑃 = 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹 ⁄𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 , the equation

above becomes

FA LA FB LB
= + 0.3
AA EAl AB EAl

Substituting the pertaining variables, we get

FA ×125 FB ×124.7
= + 0.3
400 × 70, 000 400 × 70, 000
∴125 FA − 124.7 FB =
8400 (II)

Equations (I) and (II) can be solved simultaneously for forces FA and FB,
yielding FA = 75.7 kN and FB = 8.55 kN. Also, FC = FA = 75.7 kN. The normal stresses in
posts A and C are both such that

75.7
σ= σ= = 189.3 MPa
A C
( 400 ×10−6 )
while the normal stress in post B is

8.55
=σB = 21.4 MPa
( 400 ×10−6 )
The difference Δ𝜎𝜎 between stresses in posts A and C and that of post B equals

∆σ = σ A − σ B = 189.3 − 21.4 = 167.9 MPa

which is located inside the interval [75 ; +∞) MPá. It is noteworthy that, in this
hypothetical situation, the existence of a small difference in length of one post
relative to the others causes one of them to have a stress as much as 189.3/21.4 = 8.8
times greater than its counterparts.
J The correct answer is D.

P.10 c Solution
Consider a free-body diagram of the rigid bar.

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 Applying the first condition of equilibrium in the vertical direction, we have

ΣFy = 0 → F1 + F2 + F3 − w × 2a = 0
∴ F1 + F2 + F3 = w × 2a (I)

Then, applying the second condition of equilibrium to point F, we get

ΣM y =0 → ( w × 2a ) × a − F2 × 2a − F1 × 3a =0

∴ ( w × 2a ) − 2 F2 − 3F1 =
0
∴ 3F1 + 2 F2 =w × 2a (II)

Once the load is applied to the rigid bar, it will deflect downward but will not
remain horizontal. Although rods (1), (2) and (3) are not evenly spaced, we can use
similar triangles to obtain a relationship between the deformations.

From the geometry of the figure above, we have

ν B −ν F ν D −ν F ν B −ν F ν D −ν F
= → =
3a 2a 3 2
∴ 2 (ν B −ν F ) = 3 (ν D −ν F )
∴ 2ν B − 2ν F = 3ν D − 3ν F
∴ 3ν D = 2ν B + ν F (III)

Since the rods are attached to the rigid bar with perfect connections (that is,
without gaps or clearances), we can equate the displacements 𝜈𝜈 to the deformations
𝛿𝛿,

=δ1 ν=
B ; δ2 ν=
D ; δ3 νF
Substituting in equation (III), we see that

3δ=
2 2δ1 + δ 3

At this point, we evoke the relationship for deformation under axial loads,
𝛿𝛿 = 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃⁄𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 , so that the equation above becomes

F2 L2 FL F L
3= 2 1 1 + 3 3 (IV)
A2 E2 A1 E1 A3 E3

The cross-sectional area of the stainless steel rods is 𝐴𝐴1 = 𝐴𝐴2 =

(𝜋𝜋 × 152 )⁄4 = 176.7 mm2. For a factor of safety FS = 2.5, the allowable stress imparted
on the rods will be 𝜎𝜎allow = 250⁄2.5 = 100 MPa, and the corresponding load will be
such that

Fallow,1 = 100 ×176.7 =

Fallow,2 = 17.7 kN

The same process applies to the bronze rod, which has area A3 = (𝜋𝜋 × 202 )⁄4
= 314.2 mm2 and is associated with an allowable stress 𝜎𝜎allow = 330⁄2.5 = 132 MPa.
The allowable load is, in this case,

132 × 314.2 =
Fallow,3 = 41.5 kN

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 Then, we attempt to solve the equations. The two expressions that we derived
from statics, (I) and (II), can be combined to yield

2 F1 + F2 =
F3 (V)

Backsubstituting in the compatibility equation, (IV), it follows that

F2 L2 F L ( 2 F1 + F2 ) L3
3= 2 1 1+
A2 E2 A1 E1 A3 E3
F2 L2 FL FL FL
∴3 =2 1 1 +2 1 3 + 2 3
A2 E2 A1 E1 A3 E3 A3 E3
 L L   3L2 L 
∴ 2 F1  1 + 3 = F2  − 3 
 A1 E1 A3 E3   A2 E2 A3 E3 
The equation is further simplified if we note that the rods all have the same
length,

 1 1   3 1 
2F1  + = F2  − 
 A1 E1 A3 E3   A2 E2 A3 E3 
Solving for F1, the relation above becomes

F2  3 1  F2  A2 E2 
 −  3− 
2  A2 E2 A3 E3  2  A3 E3 
=F1 =
 1 1   A1 E1 
 +  1 + 
 A1 E1 A3 E3   A3 E3 
Substituting each pertaining variable, it follows that

F2  176.7 ×193 
3− 
2  314.2 ×105 
=F1 = 0.483F2
 176.7 ×193 
1 + 
 314.2 ×105 
However, we know that the maximum allowable value of F2 for the prescribed
factor of safety is 17.7 kN. Therefore,

F1 = 0.483 ×17.7 = 8.55 kN

which is less than the allowable value of F1 (also 17.7 kN). The only remaining force is
F3, which may be determined with equation (V),

F3 =2 F1 + F2 =2 × 8.55 + 17.7 =34.8 kN

This is also less than Fallow,3 = 41.5 kN. The forces in all three rods have been
determined, and F2 controls the capacity of the system. We can now determine the
magnitude of the maximum distributed load w supported by this arrangement,
using, say, equation (I),

F1 + F2 + F3 =w × 2a
F1 + F2 + F3 8.55 + 17.7 + 34.8
∴w
= = = 20.4 kN m
2a 2 ×1.5
J The correct answer is A.

P.11 c Solution
The elongation due to temperature rise is given by the equation 𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 = 𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿Δ𝑇𝑇.
The total elongation due to thermal stresses in both members is given by

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© 2019 Montogue Quiz
 δ T = Lα∆T → δ T = LAlα Al ∆T + Lstα st ∆T
δT
∴= ( LAlα Al + Lstα st ) ∆T
∴δ T= 300 × ( 23 ×10−6 ) + 250 × (17.3 ×10−6 )  × (140 − 20 )= 1.347 mm

Inspecting the geometry of the structure, we see that the elongation due to
mechanical and thermal stresses in members A and B should be no greater than 0.5
mm. This means that a compressive load P should be applied to the system so that 𝛿𝛿𝑃𝑃
= 1.347 – 0.5 = 0.847 mm. Accordingly,

PL
δP = ∑ i i

i Ei Ai

which becomes

PAl LAl Pst Lst  LAl L 

δ=
P + → δ=
P  + st  P
AAl EAl Ast Est  AAl EAl Ast Est 
δ
∴P = P

 LAl L 
 + st 
 AAl EAl Ast Est 
where P is the common compressive load applied to both members. Substituting the
pertaining variables, we get

0.847
=P = 228.6 kN
 300 250 
 2000 × 70, 000 + 800 × 200, 000 
 
The change in length of the aluminum rod is equal to the elongation due to
temperature rise minus the shortening due to the compressive load; that is,

PLst
δ A = δ T − δ P → δ A = LAα st ∆T −
Ast Est
228, 600 × 300
∴δ A = 300 × ( 23 ×10−6 ) × (140 − 20 ) −
2000 × 75, 000
∴δ =
A 0.828 − 0.457

∴ δA =
0.371 mm

The aluminum rod will elongate by over a third of a millimeter.

J The correct answer is C.

P.12 c Solution
When the assembly is constrained, it has a free expansion 𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 given by

δ T =α∆TL =α (T2 − T1 ) L

where 𝛼𝛼 is the coefficient of thermal expansion of the material, Δ𝑇𝑇 is the variation in
temperature, L is the length of the pipe, 𝑇𝑇1 is the initial temperature of the assembly,
and 𝑇𝑇2 is its final temperature. The deflection due to mechanical stress, in turn, is
given by

 PL   PL  F
δ F =   +  + 
 AE  AB  AE  BC k 
The deformation of the assembly can be determined by superposition. That is
to say, the deformation at point C should equal

δ=
C δT − δ F

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© 2019 Montogue Quiz
where 𝛿𝛿𝐶𝐶 = 𝐹𝐹 ⁄𝑘𝑘 . Substituting the equations we have for 𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 and 𝛿𝛿𝐹𝐹 , the expression
above becomes

F  PL   PL  F
δ C = δT − δ F → = α (T2 − T1 ) L −   +  + 
k  AE  AB  AE  BC k 
 PL   PL  2F
∴α (T2 − T1 ) L −   −  =
 AE  AB  AE  BC k

At this point, we substitute the pertaining variables for the load-

displacement relationship as applied to segments AB and BC. For AB, we have PAB = F
(an arbitrary internal force), LAB = L/2, AAB = 𝜋𝜋𝑑𝑑 2⁄4, and EAB = E; similar terms apply to
segment BC. Substituting above, we get

 PL   PL  2F
α (T2 − T1 ) L −   −  =
 AE  AB  AE  BC k
F × ( L 2) F × ( L 2) 2F
∴α (T2 − T1 ) L − − =
π ×d 2
 π × ( d 2) 
2
k
 × E  × E
 4  
 4 

2 FL 8 FL 2 F
∴α (T2 − T1 ) L − − =
π d E π d 2E k
2

10 FL 2 F
∴α (T2 − T1 ) L − =
π d 2E k
10 L 2
) L F  2 + 
∴α (T2 − T1=
πd E k 
 10kL + 2π d 2 E 
∴F  =α (T2 − T1 ) L
 π d 2 Ek 
π d 2 kEα (T2 − T1 ) L
∴F =
10kL + 2π d 2 E
We can then obtain the normal stress developed in pipe segment BC; all we
have to do is divide F as given above by the area of the segment in question, 𝐴𝐴𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 =
𝜋𝜋 × (𝑑𝑑⁄2)2⁄4 = 𝜋𝜋𝑑𝑑 2 ⁄16; that is,

π d 2 kEα (T2 − T1 ) L
 π d 2 kEα (T2 − T1 ) L  16  kEα (T2 − T1 ) L 
σ= =
F 10kL + 2π d 2 E= 16  =
BC
ABC πd2 πd2  10kL + 2π d 2 E  2  5kL + π d 2 E 
 
16
8kEα (T − T ) L
∴ σ BC = 2 2 1
5kL + π d E

P.13 c Solution
Consider the following deformation diagram for member ACE.

The thermal deformation of bar AB is obtained via the relationship 𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 =

𝛼𝛼(Δ𝑇𝑇)𝐿𝐿, which in this case becomes

(δT ) AB = α st ( ∆T ) LAB = ( 6.6 ×10 ) × (150 − 75) ×1.5 =

−6
7.43 ×10−4 in.

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© 2019 Montogue Quiz
 Similarly, the deformation of bar CD is determined as

(δT )CD = α Al ( ∆T ) LCD = (12.8 ×10 ) × (150 − 75) ×1.5 =

−6
1.44 ×10−3 in.

The deformation diagram can be used to establish the pointer deflection 𝛿𝛿𝐸𝐸 .
From similar triangles, we have

E2 E3 C2C3
=
A1 E1 A2C2
E1 E3 − E1 E2 C1C3 − C1C2
∴ =
A1 E1 A2C2
δ E − (δ T ) AB (δT )CD − (δT ) AB
∴ =
3.25 0.25
Substituting (𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 )𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 = 7.43×10-4 in. and (𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 )𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 = 1.44×10-3 in., we get

δ E − ( 7.43 ×10−4 ) − ( 7.43 ×10 )

(1.44 ×10 )= −3 −4

= →δ E 0.0098 in.
3.25 0.25
The displacement of the pointer when the temperature rises is close to one
hundredth of an inch.
J The correct answer is C.

P.14 c Solution
Consider the following diagram for the bar.

Then, take a differential element of length dx located at a distance x from the

center of the bar. The free expansion of the element due to the temperature raise is

d δ T = α∆Tdx

The total deformation 𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 due to the temperature raise can be determined by
integrating over the length of the bar.
L
∫ d=
δ T 2∫ α∆Tdx
0

However, Δ𝑇𝑇 = Δ𝑇𝑇0 exp(−|𝑥𝑥|⁄𝑐𝑐 ). Thus,

( )
L L

∫ dδ = 2 ∫ α∆T0 e
−x c −x c
T dx= 2α∆T0 × −ce
0 0

∴δ T = 2α c∆T0 1 − e ( −L c
)
Then, we determine the displacement due to load,

σ × 2L
δP =
E
Since the bar is fixed on both ends, the total deformation should equal zero,
i.e.,

δ T − δ P =0 → δ T =δ P

We have already prepared equations for 𝛿𝛿𝑇𝑇 and 𝛿𝛿𝑃𝑃 . Substituting above, we
see that

2σ L
δT = δ P →
E
= 2α c∆T0 × 1 − e
−L
( c
)
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© 2019 Montogue Quiz
 Solving for the compressive stress 𝜎𝜎, we finally obtain

2σ L
E
= 2 α c∆T0 × 1 − e(−L c
)
cEα∆T0
∴σ
=
L
(
1− e
−L c
)
Note that this situation is a departure from the typical thermal stress 𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸Δ𝑇𝑇
expected in an elementary temperature-displacement analysis.

X ANSWER SUMMARY
1A B
Problem 1
1B A
Problem 2 B
Problem 3 Open-ended pb.
Problem 4 Open-ended pb.
5A B
Problem 5
5B C
Problem 6 B
Problem 7 C
Problem 8 D
Problem 9 D
Problem 10 A
Problem 11 C
Problem 12 Open-ended pb.
Problem 13 C
Problem 14 Open-ended pb.

X REFERENCES
• BEER, F., JOHNSTON, E., DEWOLF, J., and MAZUREK, D. (2012). Mechanics of
Materials. 6th edition. New York: McGraw-Hill.
• GERE, J. and GOODNO, B. (2009). Mechanics of Materials. 7th edition.
Stamford: Cengage Learning.
• HIBBELER, R. (2014). Mechanics of Materials. 9th edition. Upper Saddle River:
Pearson.
• PHILPOT, T. (2013). Mechanics of Materials: An Integrated Learning System. 3rd
edition. Hoboken: John Wiley and Sons.
• STEIF, P. (2012). Mechanics of Materials. Upper Saddle River: Pearson.

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© 2019 Montogue Quiz