In a structure, cables and wires are generally used:
Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.
Correct answer: D. none of these
Asked in SSC JE 25/01/2018 (Morning)
Detailed Explanation
A cable has almost no bending stiffness. It cannot resist compression (it buckles or goes slack) or bending; it simply takes the shape that lets it carry the loads in pure tension.
Why “none of these” Is Correct
Cables and wires are used as tension members — suspension bridge cables, stay cables, guy wires, prestressing tendons. Since tension is not offered, the answer is none of these.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
- A. to resist shear stress: A thin flexible cable has negligible shear capacity in a structural sense.
- B. as compression members: A cable cannot carry compression; it would go slack.
- C. as flexural members: A cable has no flexural rigidity to resist bending.
Key Point
Cables and wires = tension-only members.
Key Concepts for Students
- Cable under UDL per horizontal length takes a parabolic shape.
- Under self-weight along its length it takes a catenary shape.
- Cable tension is maximum at the supports (highest slope).
Practice more: this is question 17 in Bending and Shear Stress MCQs – Part 2. Try the whole set and check every answer instantly.