Structures·MCQ explained

A shaft is subjected to a bending moment M and a torque T simultaneously. The ratio of the maximum bending stress to the maximum shear stress developed in the shaft is:

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: C. 2M/T

Asked in SSC JE 23/01/2018 (Morning)

Detailed Explanation

Compare bending stress and torsional shear stress at the surface of a solid shaft.

\[ \frac{\sigma_b}{\tau} = \frac{32M/\pi D^3}{16T/\pi D^3} = \frac{2M}{T} \]

Why “2M/T” Is Correct

The ratio is 2M/T.

Combined bending M and torque T (solid shaft)Formula
Bending stressσb = 32M/(πD³)
Torsional shear stressτ = 16T/(πD³)
Equivalent bending moment (max principal stress)Me = ½[M + √(M² + T²)]
Equivalent torque (max shear stress)Te = √(M² + T²)
Ratio σb/τ2M/T

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

  • A. M/T: Misses the factor 2.
  • B. T/M: Inverted and misses the factor 2.
  • D. 2T/M: 2T/M is the inverse relation.

Key Point

σb/τ = 2M/T because Zp = 2Z for a circular section.

Key Concepts for Students

  • Equivalent torque √(M² + T²).
  • Section modulus Z = πD³/32.
  • Polar modulus Zp = πD³/16.

Practice more: this is question 17 in Torsion MCQs – Part 2. Try the whole set and check every answer instantly.