9.3 - Virtual Work
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Practice Questions
Test your understanding with targeted questions
What is the main advantage of the Virtual Work method over the Real Work method?
💡 Hint: Think about limitations of the Real Work method.
Define a virtual force in structural analysis.
💡 Hint: Consider what is meant by 'hypothetical' in this context.
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Interactive Quizzes
Quick quizzes to reinforce your learning
What does the Virtual Work method allow engineers to analyze?
💡 Hint: Think about the flexibility offered by the method.
True or False: The Real Work method is more versatile than the Virtual Work method.
💡 Hint: Reflect on the limitations of the Real Work method.
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Challenge Problems
Push your limits with advanced challenges
A bridge consists of a single span subjected to a real load of 10 kN at midspan. Use the Virtual Work method to determine the deflection at the central support if a virtual point load of 1 kN is applied also at the midspan.
💡 Hint: Free body diagram and equilibrium equations will aid in simplifying calculations.
Design a truss member with real loads of 15 kN and 5 kN applied at two different points. Use the Virtual Work method considering a unit virtual load to analyze and determine the resultant deformation.
💡 Hint: Begin by outlining the connections and points of load application to track how the structure reacts.
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Reference links
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