The principle of virtual work states that for a structure in equilibrium, the work done by external forces equals:
AWork done against internal stresses
BZero when small virtual displacements are applied
CThe strain energy stored
DKinetic energy of the system
Correct Answer:
B. Zero when small virtual displacements are applied
EXPLANATION
Virtual work principle: For equilibrium, ΣδW_external + ΣδW_internal = 0. External work by real forces through virtual displacements equals internal work.
In the method of sections for truss analysis, how many members can be cut for a 2D truss to maintain determinacy?
AOne member
BTwo members
CThree members
DFour members
Correct Answer:
C. Three members
EXPLANATION
Method of sections allows cutting maximum 3 members in a 2D truss because we have 3 equilibrium equations (ΣFx=0, ΣFy=0, ΣM=0) to solve for 3 unknowns.
A three-hinged arch is statically determinate because it has:
AThree support reactions and three equations of equilibrium
BFour support reactions and one additional equation from the internal hinge
CTwo support reactions at each end
DOnly vertical and horizontal reactions
Correct Answer:
B. Four support reactions and one additional equation from the internal hinge
EXPLANATION
Three-hinged arch has 4 reaction components (2 at each support) and 3 equilibrium equations plus 1 condition that moment at internal hinge = 0, making it statically determinate.