Question

The maximum shear stress induced in a member which is subjected to an axial load is equal to

• A. maximum normal stress
• B. half of maximum normal stress
• C. twice the maximum normal stress
• D. thrice the maximum normal stress

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

half of maximum normal stress

We know that shear stress on an oblique plane at an angle $\theta$ to the cross-section of a body which is subjected to a direct tensile stress $\sigma$ is equal to $\frac{\sigma }{2}sin2\theta$. Thus maximum value of this occurs at $\theta ={45}^o$ which is $\frac{\sigma }{2}$