How does the slenderness ratio of a tension steel member affect its strength?
- AA higher slenderness ratio increases the member’s strength.
- BA higher slenderness ratio reduces the member’s strength.
- CSlenderness ratio has no impact on the strength of a tension member.Correct
- DSlenderness ratio affects only the member’s deflection, not its strength.
Solution
Concept
Slenderness ratio effect on tension members
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Slenderness ratio is the ratio of effective length to the radius of gyration of a structural member. 2. Higher slenderness ratios increase susceptibility to buckling and reduce member strength and capacity. Answer: C
Explanation
Tensile strength in steel members is governed strictly by the cross-sectional area and material yield or ultimate stress, not stability. Unlike compression members that are prone to buckling, tension members carry loads without buckling regardless of length. Therefore, option C correctly notes that slenderness ratio does not alter tension member strength.
Why the other options are wrong
A) A higher slenderness ratio increases susceptibility to vibration and reduces effective load carrying capacity, not increases strength. D) Slenderness ratio impacts member stiffness and strength considerations under dynamic or reversal loads.
Shortcut
Tension member strength depends on cross-section; slenderness ratio has no impact.
Common mistake
Misapplying compression member behavior where slenderness reduces strength to tension members and selecting option B.
Correct answer: C) Slenderness ratio has no impact on the strength of a tension member.