Question

What is the point in a hanging beam where the bending moment is zero is known as?

• A. Point of Maximum Shear
• B. Point of Contraction
• C. Point of contraflexure
• D. Point of inflexion

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Point of contraflexure

he point of contraflexure in a beam is where the bending moment is zero and changes its sign, shifting from positive to negative or vice versa. This point is where the beam switches its curvature orientation. In design, contraflexure points are critical as they reveal where the structural member toggles between tension and compression. There's no bending tendency at these points. Recognizing these points enhances safety and efficiency in structures, preventing excessive deformation or breakage under various forces. Thus, understanding the point of contraflexure is crucial in structural engineering.