2. Relating externally applied distributed load on body's surface to stress tensor

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is traction in the context of solid mechanics?

   Hint

   Think about the definition of force and area.

2. 2.

   Define stress tensor.

   Hint

   Consider its role in depicting internal forces.

3. 3.

   What does traction represent in solid mechanics?

   • Mass per unit volume
   • Surface force per unit area
   • Internal stress

   Hint

   Remember the definition focused on force and area.

4. 4.

   True or False: The stress tensor is always symmetric.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the implications of shear forces being equal.

5. 5.

   A beam with a uniformly distributed load experiences bending. Derive the relationship between the external load and internal stress at mid-span.

   Hint

   Use equilibrium and the relationship T = F/A.

6. 6.

   Consider a cylinder under axial load. Explain how the traction at both ends relates to the stress distribution along the cylinder.

   Hint

   Examine internal vs external forces carefully in your explanation.