The strength of timber is maximum when the load applied is
- AParallel to grainCorrect
- BPerpendicular to grain
- CInclined at 45° to grain
- DInclined at 60° to grain
Solution
Concept
Strength of Timber Parallel to Grain
Formula
No formula applicable
Step-by-step solution
Identify that timber fibers align along the grain direction, providing maximum resistance to applied loads when loaded parallel to the grain.
Explanation
Timber is strongest when loaded parallel to the grain because its wood fibers act like long, vertical columns aligned with the direction of the force. This structure allows the fibers to resist stretching and crushing much better than when loaded perpendicular to them.
Shortcut
Remember "Parallel = Power" — wood fibers act like strong parallel pillars that support the highest load along the direction of the grain.
Common mistake
Many students confuse the directional strength of timber and mistakenly choose Option B (Perpendicular to grain), assuming that loading across multiple fibers provides better resistance, whereas wood fibers actually offer maximum tensile and compressive strength when loaded parallel to the grain.
Correct answer: A) Parallel to grain