Theories of Failure MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Postulation of maximum strain energy theory

Formula

NONE

Step-by-step solution

1. The total strain energy theory predicts failure when the total strain energy per unit volume reaches the strain energy at the elastic limit in simple tension. 2. This theory was proposed by B. P. Haigh and later modified by Beltrami. 3. Therefore, the strain energy theory was postulated by Haigh. Answer: A

Explanation

The Total Strain Energy Theory states that failure occurs when the total strain energy per unit volume in a multi-axial stress system reaches the strain energy at the yield point in simple tension. This failure criterion was postulated by Haigh and later modified by Beltrami. Rankine and Tresca postulated the maximum principal stress and maximum shear stress theories, respectively.

Why the other options are wrong

B) Rankine postulated the maximum principal stress theory. C) Tresca postulated the maximum shear stress theory. D) Mohr proposed Mohr's failure criterion for soil and materials.

Shortcut

Haigh (and Beltrami) postulated the Total Strain Energy Theory.

Common mistake

Confusing Haigh's strain energy theory with Rankine's maximum principal stress theory or Tresca's maximum shear stress theory.