ETC Structural Analysis & Load Calculations Flashcards
6 cards from real ETC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 ETC Structural Analysis & Load Calculations flashcards as text
What is the difference between a simply supported beam and a cantilever beam?
Answer: A simply supported beam rests on two supports; a cantilever is fixed at one end and free at the other
A simply supported beam has pinned or roller supports at each end allowing rotation; a cantilever has a fixed support at one end and extends freely at the other.
What does shear force cause in a structural member?
Answer: Sliding failure along a cross section perpendicular to the member axis
Shear force acts transversely to a structural member, tending to cause adjacent sections to slide past each other, and governs design of web thickness in beams.
What does tributary area mean in structural load distribution?
Answer: The floor or roof area that contributes load to a specific structural member
Tributary area is the portion of floor, roof, or wall area that is supported by and loads a particular beam, column, or foundation element.
In column design, what is Euler buckling?
Answer: The axial compressive load at which a slender column buckles laterally
Euler's critical buckling load defines the theoretical axial load at which an ideal slender column loses stability and buckles laterally.
What is the modulus of elasticity for structural steel in US practice?
Answer: 29,000 ksi (29 million psi)
The modulus of elasticity for structural steel is 29,000 ksi (29 x 10 to the sixth psi), a constant used to calculate deflections and buckling loads.
What does load path describe in structural engineering?
Answer: The route by which forces travel from their point of application through the structure to the foundation
Load path traces how gravity, wind, and seismic forces flow from floors and roofs through beams, columns, and walls into the foundation and soil.