Question

The force induced in the members of truss due to loading is

• A. Axial force
• B. Shear force
• C. Bending moment
• D. Twisting moment

Hint:

Remember the fundamental difference between a beam and a truss member:
- Beam: Designed to resist loads perpendicular to its axis, creating internal shear and bending moment.
- Truss Member (ideal): Designed to resist loads at its ends only, creating internal axial force (tension/compression).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the type of internal force that exists in the members of an ideal truss.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The analysis of trusses is based on a set of simplifying assumptions for an "ideal truss":

• The members are connected only at their ends by frictionless pins (joints).

• All external loads and support reactions are applied only at the joints.

• The weight of the members is negligible (or is considered as loads applied at the joints).


Because of these assumptions, the members of a truss are two-force members. A two-force member can only be subjected to forces that are equal, opposite, and collinear. This means the internal force within the member acts purely along its longitudinal axis. This type of force is called an

axial force. It can be either tensile (pulling the member apart) or compressive (pushing the member together).
Ideal truss members do not experience shear force, bending moment, or twisting moment.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The force induced in the members of a truss due to loading is an axial force (either tension or compression).