The GATE Grind

GATE 2016 ME (ME3) – Question 45

Mechanics of Materials · Deflection of beams · 2 marks · Multiple choice

A beam of length L is carrying a uniformly distributed load w per unit length. The flexural rigidity of the beam is EI. The reaction at the simple support at the right end is

Diagram for GATE 2016 ME (ME3) question 45
  1. $wL/2$
  2. $3wL/8$
  3. $wL/4$
  4. $wL/8$

Practise this question in The GATE Grind →

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (B) $3wL/8$

Explanation

Release the prop and impose zero net tip deflection. The downward UDL deflection is wL⁴/(8EI), while an upward end reaction R gives RL³/(3EI). Equating them yields **R=3wL/8, B**. The fixed-end reactions then follow from equilibrium.