Slope Deflection Method MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

The slope-deflection method formulates equilibrium equations in terms of kinematic unknowns (slopes and deflections).

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify the fundamental approach of the slope-deflection method, which uses joint displacements as primary unknowns. 2. Recall that the kinematic indeterminacy (D_k) represents the total number of independent joint rotations and translations. 3. Conclude that the number of simultaneous equations and unknowns equals the degree of kinematic indeterminacy.

Explanation

In the slope-deflection method, the basic unknowns are the independent joint rotations (slopes) and joint translations (displacements/sways). Therefore, the number of unknowns to be determined is equal to the degree of kinematic indeterminacy of the structure.

Why the other options are wrong

A: Degree of static indeterminacy represents unknowns in force methods. C: The sum of both is not used as unknowns in this method. D: Number of joints does not directly equal the unknowns since support conditions and member inextensibility affect D_k.

Shortcut

Slope deflection method = Kinematic indeterminacy (D_k). Moment distribution method = Joint rotations only.

Common mistake

Confusing kinematic indeterminacy with static indeterminacy (D_s), which is used in force methods like consistent deformation.