Question

If the unknown variables in the calculations for cables under distributed load are more than the known quantities, then the number of equations required to solve all the unknown variables are?

(a) Infinite

(b) Finite

(c) Not possible

(d) Question fault

This question was addressed to me in an interview for job.

I'd like to ask this question from Cables Subjected to a Distributed Load topic in chapter Internal Forces of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

The correct answer is (b) Finite

The explanation is: Whatever be the calculation involved, the unknown variables will be ultimately come out from the equations. The proper use of the known quantities and the multiuse of various calculation techniques will ultimately give up the results. Thus whether it may be the case of the cables or the beams the equations if applied properly will result in the determination of the unknowns.