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GATE 2021 ME (ME1) – Question 28

Mechanics of Materials · Stress, strain and elastic constants · 1 mark · Multiple choice

A prismatic bar PQRST is subjected to axial loads as shown in the figure. The segments having maximum and minimum axial stresses, respectively, are

Prismatic bar PQRST fixed at P, with axial loads 10 kN left at Q, 15 kN right at R, 20 kN left at S and 25 kN right at T. See the attached source image.
  1. QR and PQ
  2. ST and PQ
  3. QR and RS
  4. ST and RS

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (D) ST and RS

Explanation

Use the sum of loads to the right of each cut. Axial-force magnitudes in PQ,QR,RS,ST are respectively 10,20,5,25 kN.

The cross-section is constant, so stress magnitude follows force magnitude. Maximum is **ST**, minimum **RS**, giving **D**.