Question

If the supports are properly aligned then the reaction forces developed under the potential energy diagrams are adequate to support the body.

(a) Statement is true only in 2D

(b) Statement is true only in 3D

(c) Statement is true throughout

(d) Statement is true only in 1D

The question was asked in an interview for job.

This interesting question is from Potential Energy Criterion for Equilibrium topic in chapter Principle of Virtual Work of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

Correct choice is (c) Statement is true throughout

For explanation: This is the basic nature observed during the experiments on the beams an all the support system. The dimension doesn’t affect the equilibrium conditions. The main motto is to achieve the equilibrium. It is achieved by equating the net force equal to zero.