Structural Analysis Multiple Choice Questions on “Maxwell’s Theorem of Reciprocal Displacements: Betti’s Law”.
1. Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem is applicable for elastic materials only.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Clarification: Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem is applicable for elastic materials that too which follows Hooke’s law.
2. Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem is applicable for only prismatic members.
a) True
b) False
Answer: b
Clarification: Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem is applicable for both prismatic as well as non-prismatic members as long as they are made of elastic materials and obeys Hooke’s Law.
3. Identify the incorrect statement from the following regarding applicability of Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem.
a) It is applicable for elastic member’s only
b) The temperature must remain constant throughout
c) Supports of the member should be unyielding
d) It is applicable for prismatic member only
Answer: d
Clarification: Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem is applicable for both prismatic as well as non-prismatic members as long as they are made of elastic materials and obeys Hooke’s Law.
4. Betti’s Theorem is based on ______
a) Balancing of external and internal forces
b) Balancing of work done produced by external and internal loadings
c) Balancing of external and internal moments
d) Balancing of strain energy produced by external and internal loadings
Answer: b
Clarification: Betti’s Theorem is derived by balancing the work done produced by external and internal loadings.
5. Law of reciprocal deflections was given by ______
a) E. Betti
b) James Clerk Maxwell
c) Alberto Castigliano
d) Clayperon
Answer: b
Clarification: Law of reciprocal deflections is also known as Maxwell’s Reciprocal Deflection Theorem and was offered by James Clerk Maxwell in 1864.