Question

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

• A. QR and PQ
• B. ST and PQ
• C. QR and RS
• D. ST and RS

Hint:

In axial load problems, stress is directly proportional to the load applied and inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area. Look for segments with higher loads and smaller areas for maximum stress.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

In an axial load scenario, the stress on any segment is calculated as: \[ \sigma = \frac{P}{A} \] Where \(P\) is the applied axial load, and \(A\) is the cross-sectional area. The key points to consider:
- The maximum stress occurs at the point with the maximum axial load and minimum cross-sectional area.
- The minimum stress occurs at the point with the minimum axial load and maximum cross-sectional area.
Given the axial loads: - Segment ST has the maximum axial load (25 kN), so it will experience the maximum stress.
- Segment RS has the minimum axial load (20 kN), so it will experience the minimum stress.
Thus, the correct answer is (D). The maximum stress occurs in ST, and the minimum stress occurs in RS.