Q: Equilibrium of a smooth cylinder resting on its curved (convex) surface A smooth right circular cylinder lies on a horizontal plane on its convex curved surface. The state of equilibrium is: Choose the correct type of equilibrium (stable, unstable,…

Concept Type of equilibrium depends on how the center of gravity (C.G.) height changes for small displacements. Stable: small displacement raises C.G.; system tends to return. Unstable: small displacement lowers C.G.; system departs further. Neutral: small displacement does not change C.G. height. Reasoning A smooth cylinder rolling slightly on a horizontal plane about its line of contact keeps the C.G. at the same height; there is no change in potential energy for infinitesimal rolling. Final Answer neutral

Q: Forces on a rough inclined plane: Effort parallel to the plane to move a body upward A body of weight W is to be moved up a rough plane inclined at angle α to the horizontal by a force applied parallel to the plane. The coefficient of friction is μ…

Given Incline angle α, weight W, coefficient of friction μ, effort P applied parallel to plane to move body up the plane. Free-body equations (limiting equilibrium upward) Along plane: P − W sinα − F = 0 Normal: R = W cosα At impending upward motion, friction acts down the plane with magnitude F = μ R = μ W cosα. Compute P P = W sinα + μ W cosα = W (sinα + μ cosα) Alternative angle of friction form Using μ = tanφ, the same result can be expressed via trigonometric identities if needed, but the simplest correct form is above. Final Answer P = W (sinα + μ cosα)

Q: Structural analysis terminology: Redundant vs. perfect frames A redundant frame is also called which type of frame in classical truss/frame classification? Choose the correct description.

Concept For a planar pin-jointed truss/frame with j joints and m members, a perfect frame satisfies m = 2j − 3. If m > 2j − 3, the frame has extra members (statically indeterminate) and is termed redundant. If m < 2j − 3, it is deficient. Classification Both redundant and deficient frames are grouped as imperfect (i.e., not perfect). Final Answer imperfect

Q: Mechanics: motion of two equal masses connected by a light string over a smooth pulley One mass lies on a smooth horizontal plane; the other equal mass hangs freely over the pulley. Assume ideal (massless, inextensible) string and frictionless pull…

Given data Two blocks of equal mass m connected by a light string over a smooth pulley. One block on a smooth horizontal table; the other hangs freely. Concept/Approach Net external driving force on the system is the weight of the hanging block (m g). Total mass accelerated is 2m. Step-by-step calculation Resultant acceleration a = (driving force)/(total mass) = (m g)/(2m) = g/2.Tension T in the string equals m a = m g/2 (non-zero). Verification/Alternative Equations of motion: for the hanging block, m g − T = m a; for the horizontal block, T = m a. Adding gives m g = 2m a → a = g/2 ≠ 0. Common pitfalls Equilibrium would occur only if opposing friction balanced m g, but the plane is smooth (no friction). Final Answer Agree — the system accelerates (a = g/2).

Q: Centre of gravity (centroid) of an equilateral triangle: distance from any side An equilateral triangular lamina has side length a. Choose the correct perpendicular distance of the centroid from any of its sides.

Given data Equilateral triangle, side a. Concept/Approach Height h of an equilateral triangle is h = (√3/2)·a. The centroid divides the height in the ratio 2:1 from vertex to base, so its distance from a side (the base) equals h/3. Step-by-step calculation Distance from any side = h/3 = [(√3/2)·a]/3 = (√3 a)/6. Common pitfalls Confusing centroid with incenter or circumcenter distances; only the centroid gives h/3 from each side. Final Answer (√3 a)/6

Q: Kinematics under constant acceleration: identify the correct linear motion equations Assume one-dimensional motion with constant acceleration. Select the option that lists valid equations relating u, v, a, s, and t.

Given data Motion in a straight line with constant acceleration a. u = initial speed, v = final speed, s = displacement, t = time. Concept/Approach Integrate a = dv/dt and use average velocity to obtain the standard kinematic relations. Key formulas (all valid) v = u + a ts = u t + (1/2) a t^2v^2 = u^2 + 2 a s Common pitfalls These hold only when acceleration is constant; they do not apply for variable a(t). Final Answer All of these

Q: Like parallel forces: determine magnitudes from resultant position Two like parallel forces act 24 mm apart; their resultant is 20 N. The resultant's line of action is 6 mm from one of the forces. Find the two forces.

Given data Separation d = 24 mm; resultant R = 20 N. Resultant is x = 6 mm from one force (take from the smaller unknown without loss of generality). Concept/Approach Along the line joining the forces, position of the resultant satisfies: x = (F2 · d)/(F1 + F2) with R = F1 + F2. Step-by-step calculation 6 = (F2 · 24)/20 → F2 = (6 × 20)/24 = 5 N.F1 = R − F2 = 20 − 5 = 15 N. Verification Moment about F1: R × 6 = 120 N·mm equals F2 × 24 = 120 N·mm ✔ Final Answer 15 N and 5 N

Q: Pulling a body up an inclined plane: angle of applied force for minimum effort A force is applied at an angle to the plane to move a body upward. Let the angle of friction be φ (tan φ = μ). Complete the statement: the required force is minimum whe…

Given data Rough plane with coefficient of friction μ; angle of friction φ where tan φ = μ. Concept/Approach Resolve the pull P into components along and normal to the plane: P cos θ (up the plane) and P sin θ (reduces the normal reaction). Required P is minimized when dP/dθ = 0, which gives θ = φ. Step-by-step relation Required P = (W sin α + μ W cos α)/(cos θ + μ sin θ)Denominator is maximum when tan θ = μ → θ = φ. Final Answer equal to

Q: Definition check in circular motion: direction of centrifugal force Statement: “The force which acts along the radius of a circle and is directed away from the centre is called the centrifugal force.” Choose the correct evaluation.

Concept/Approach In a rotating (non-inertial) frame, the fictitious centrifugal force acts radially outward on a mass undergoing circular motion. It is opposite in direction to the real centripetal force (which is radially inward). Final Answer Agree

Question 1

Impact classification: Bodies that rebound after collision  What are bodies called that rebound (restore relative speed) after impact? Choose the correct classification.

Accepted Answer

Concept Elastic impact implies the coefficient of restitution e = 1, so the bodies fully rebound consistent with kinetic energy being conserved in the normal direction. Contrast In inelastic impact (0 ≤ e < 1), bodies do not fully rebound; in perfectly inelastic impact (e = 0) they stick together. Final Answer elastic bodies

Question 2

Equilibrium of a smooth cylinder resting on its curved (convex) surface  A smooth right circular cylinder lies on a horizontal plane on its convex curved surface. The state of equilibrium is: Choose the correct type of equilibrium (stable, unstable,…

Accepted Answer

Concept Type of equilibrium depends on how the center of gravity (C.G.) height changes for small displacements. Stable: small displacement raises C.G.; system tends to return. Unstable: small displacement lowers C.G.; system departs further. Neutral: small displacement does not change C.G. height. Reasoning A smooth cylinder rolling slightly on a horizontal plane about its line of contact keeps the C.G. at the same height; there is no change in potential energy for infinitesimal rolling. Final Answer neutral

Question 3

Forces on a rough inclined plane: Effort parallel to the plane to move a body upward  A body of weight W is to be moved up a rough plane inclined at angle α to the horizontal by a force applied parallel to the plane. The coefficient of friction is μ…

Accepted Answer

Given Incline angle α, weight W, coefficient of friction μ, effort P applied parallel to plane to move body up the plane. Free-body equations (limiting equilibrium upward) Along plane: P − W sinα − F = 0 Normal: R = W cosα At impending upward motion, friction acts down the plane with magnitude F = μ R = μ W cosα. Compute P P = W sinα + μ W cosα = W (sinα + μ cosα) Alternative angle of friction form Using μ = tanφ, the same result can be expressed via trigonometric identities if needed, but the simplest correct form is above. Final Answer P = W (sinα + μ cosα)

Question 4

Structural analysis terminology: Redundant vs. perfect frames  A redundant frame is also called which type of frame in classical truss/frame classification? Choose the correct description.

Accepted Answer

Concept For a planar pin-jointed truss/frame with j joints and m members, a perfect frame satisfies m = 2j − 3. If m > 2j − 3, the frame has extra members (statically indeterminate) and is termed redundant. If m < 2j − 3, it is deficient. Classification Both redundant and deficient frames are grouped as imperfect (i.e., not perfect). Final Answer imperfect

Question 5

Mechanics: motion of two equal masses connected by a light string over a smooth pulley  One mass lies on a smooth horizontal plane; the other equal mass hangs freely over the pulley. Assume ideal (massless, inextensible) string and frictionless pull…

Accepted Answer

Given data Two blocks of equal mass m connected by a light string over a smooth pulley. One block on a smooth horizontal table; the other hangs freely. Concept/Approach Net external driving force on the system is the weight of the hanging block (m g). Total mass accelerated is 2m. Step-by-step calculation Resultant acceleration a = (driving force)/(total mass) = (m g)/(2m) = g/2.Tension T in the string equals m a = m g/2 (non-zero). Verification/Alternative Equations of motion: for the hanging block, m g − T = m a; for the horizontal block, T = m a. Adding gives m g = 2m a → a = g/2 ≠ 0. Common pitfalls Equilibrium would occur only if opposing friction balanced m g, but the plane is smooth (no friction). Final Answer Agree — the system accelerates (a = g/2).

Question 6

Centre of gravity (centroid) of an equilateral triangle: distance from any side  An equilateral triangular lamina has side length a.  Choose the correct perpendicular distance of the centroid from any of its sides.

Accepted Answer

Given data Equilateral triangle, side a. Concept/Approach Height h of an equilateral triangle is h = (√3/2)·a. The centroid divides the height in the ratio 2:1 from vertex to base, so its distance from a side (the base) equals h/3. Step-by-step calculation Distance from any side = h/3 = [(√3/2)·a]/3 = (√3 a)/6. Common pitfalls Confusing centroid with incenter or circumcenter distances; only the centroid gives h/3 from each side. Final Answer (√3 a)/6

Question 7

Kinematics under constant acceleration: identify the correct linear motion equations  Assume one-dimensional motion with constant acceleration.  Select the option that lists valid equations relating u, v, a, s, and t.

Accepted Answer

Given data Motion in a straight line with constant acceleration a. u = initial speed, v = final speed, s = displacement, t = time. Concept/Approach Integrate a = dv/dt and use average velocity to obtain the standard kinematic relations. Key formulas (all valid) v = u + a ts = u t + (1/2) a t^2v^2 = u^2 + 2 a s Common pitfalls These hold only when acceleration is constant; they do not apply for variable a(t). Final Answer All of these

Question 8

Like parallel forces: determine magnitudes from resultant position  Two like parallel forces act 24 mm apart; their resultant is 20 N. The resultant's line of action is 6 mm from one of the forces.  Find the two forces.

Accepted Answer

Given data Separation d = 24 mm; resultant R = 20 N. Resultant is x = 6 mm from one force (take from the smaller unknown without loss of generality). Concept/Approach Along the line joining the forces, position of the resultant satisfies: x = (F2 · d)/(F1 + F2) with R = F1 + F2. Step-by-step calculation 6 = (F2 · 24)/20 → F2 = (6 × 20)/24 = 5 N.F1 = R − F2 = 20 − 5 = 15 N. Verification Moment about F1: R × 6 = 120 N·mm equals F2 × 24 = 120 N·mm ✔ Final Answer 15 N and 5 N

Question 9

Pulling a body up an inclined plane: angle of applied force for minimum effort  A force is applied at an angle to the plane to move a body upward. Let the angle of friction be φ (tan φ = μ).  Complete the statement: the required force is minimum whe…

Accepted Answer

Given data Rough plane with coefficient of friction μ; angle of friction φ where tan φ = μ. Concept/Approach Resolve the pull P into components along and normal to the plane: P cos θ (up the plane) and P sin θ (reduces the normal reaction). Required P is minimized when dP/dθ = 0, which gives θ = φ. Step-by-step relation Required P = (W sin α + μ W cos α)/(cos θ + μ sin θ)Denominator is maximum when tan θ = μ → θ = φ. Final Answer equal to

Question 10

Definition check in circular motion: direction of centrifugal force  Statement: “The force which acts along the radius of a circle and is directed away from the centre is called the centrifugal force.”  Choose the correct evaluation.

Accepted Answer

Concept/Approach In a rotating (non-inertial) frame, the fictitious centrifugal force acts radially outward on a mass undergoing circular motion. It is opposite in direction to the real centripetal force (which is radially inward). Final Answer Agree

Question 11

Types of friction: name the maximum friction just before sliding begins  Identify the correct term for the peak value reached when a body is on the verge of motion relative to a surface.  Choose the correct option.

Accepted Answer

Concept/Approach As the applied force increases on a stationary body, static friction increases up to a maximum. This peak value at impending motion is called limiting friction. Final Answer Limiting friction

Question 12

Projectile motion (no air resistance): angle for maximum horizontal range  A projectile is launched with a given speed.  At what angle of projection is the range greatest?

Accepted Answer

Given data Projectile launched with speed u; no air resistance; flat ground. Concept/Approach Range R = (u2/g)·sin 2θ. R is maximized when sin 2θ = 1. Step-by-step sin 2θ = 1 → 2θ = 90° → θ = 45°. Final Answer 45°

Question 13

Definition check: meaning of the term ‘‘force’’ with respect to motion  Statement: ‘‘Force may be defined as an agent which produces or tends to produce motion, or destroys or tends to destroy motion.’’  Choose the correct evaluation.

Accepted Answer

Concept/Approach In mechanics, a force is any interaction that can change the state of motion of a body (start, stop, speed up, slow down, or change direction). The statement reflects this definition. Final Answer Agree

Question 14

Friction comparison: static versus dynamic (kinetic) friction  Complete the statement: Static friction is always ______ dynamic friction for the same two surfaces in contact.  Choose the correct relation.

Accepted Answer

Concept/Approach For a given pair of surfaces, the maximum static friction typically exceeds kinetic (dynamic) friction: μs > μk. Hence, just before motion, the required force is higher than that needed to keep the body sliding at constant speed. Final Answer greater than

Question 15

Friction type when a body is already moving  Identify the correct term for the frictional force acting on a body while it is in motion relative to the surface. Choose the correct option.

Accepted Answer

Given data The body is already in motion relative to the contact surface. Concept/Approach Friction is categorized by the motion state: static (no slip), limiting (maximum static, just before slip), kinetic/dynamic (during sliding), and rolling (during rolling contact). Step-by-step Motion is occurring ⇒ sliding friction applies.Sliding friction is also called kinetic or dynamic friction. Common pitfalls Confusing limiting friction (threshold of motion) or static friction (no slip) with the friction during sliding. Final Answer dynamic friction

Question 16

Conservation laws: Identify the incorrect attribution  Statement to evaluate: "According to the principle of conservation of energy, the total momentum of a system in any direction remains constant unless acted upon by an external force in that dire…

Accepted Answer

Given data We are judging a statement that mixes conservation laws. Concept/Approach Conservation of momentum (not energy) states that in the absence of external force along a direction, total momentum along that direction remains constant. Conservation of energy states total energy of an isolated system remains constant. Step-by-step The statement assigns a momentum result to the energy principle.Therefore the attribution is wrong. Common pitfalls Interchanging momentum and energy conservation statements. Final Answer Incorrect

Question 17

Mechanical advantage (MA): Choose the correct definition  For a lifting machine, mechanical advantage is defined as which of the following ratios? Select the correct option.

Accepted Answer

Given data We must identify the correct definition of MA. Concept/Approach Mechanical advantage (MA) = Load / Effort.Velocity ratio (VR) = Distance moved by effort / Distance moved by load.Efficiency = Output / Input (often MA / VR for idealized machines). Step-by-step Only option (B) matches MA = Load ÷ Effort. Common pitfalls Confusing MA with VR (option A) or efficiency (option C). Option D is therefore incorrect. Final Answer load lifted ÷ effort applied

Question 18

Definition check: Resultant force  Statement to evaluate: "A resultant force is a single force which produces the same effect as produced by all the given forces acting on a body." Choose whether the statement is correct or incorrect.

Accepted Answer

Concept/Approach The resultant of a system of concurrent forces is the single force that has the same net translational effect (and same net moment about any point if applied at a suitable line of action) as the original system. Step-by-step By definition, a single equivalent force can replace a coplanar, concurrent force system without changing the overall mechanical effect. Common pitfalls Confusing the resultant force (single force) with a general equivalent system (which could be a force plus a couple for non-concurrent forces). Final Answer Correct

Question 19

Name the principle behind component-wise addition of forces  Statement: "The algebraic sum of the resolved parts of several forces along a given direction equals the resolved part of their resultant along the same direction." Identify the named prin…

Accepted Answer

Concept/Approach The principle of resolution of forces states that the components of vectors add: the sum of components of individual forces along any axis equals the component of their vector sum (resultant) along that axis. Why others are wrong Independence of forces concerns motion in perpendicular directions.Transmissibility permits moving a force along its line of action without changing external effects. Final Answer principle of resolution of forces

Question 20

Perfectly elastic, head-on impact: equal masses  Two balls of equal mass and perfectly elastic material lie on a smooth floor. One ball moving with speed v strikes the other, initially at rest. Choose the correct value among the options to represent…

Accepted Answer

Given data Equal masses, perfectly elastic, one-dimensional impact; ball 1 speed initially = v, ball 2 initially at rest. Concept/Approach For a perfectly elastic, head-on collision of equal masses, the velocities are exchanged. Step-by-step calculation Conservation of momentum: m·v + m·0 = m·v1′ + m·v2′ ⇒ v = v1′ + v2′Coefficient of restitution e = 1: v2′ − v1′ = vSolving the two linear equations ⇒ v1′ = 0 and v2′ = v. Interpretation The non-zero speed after impact equals v (the struck ball moves with v; the striker comes to rest). Common pitfalls Assuming both move with the same speed after impact violates energy conservation for elastic collisions. Final Answer v

Engineering Mechanics Questions