Question

A force is developed by a support that not allows the ________ of its attached member in the calculation of the potential energy.

(a) Translation

(b) Rotation

(c) Addition

(d) Subtraction

I have been asked this question during an interview.

My question is from Potential Energy Criterion for Equilibrium in section Principle of Virtual Work of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

The correct answer is (a) Translation

For explanation I would say: The force developed by a support doesn’t allow the translation of its attached member. This is the basic condition for the equilibrium of the forces in any dimension. This rule is applied when the support reactions are taken into the account for the equilibrium of the body.