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Mechanical Engineering · Q40

Machine Design

Engineering and GATE · Mechanical Engineering · question 40

Q40

When a machine member is subjected to torsion, the torsional shear stress set up in the member is

A.
Zero at both the centroidal axis and outer surface of the member
B.
Maximum at both the centroidal axis and outer surface of the member
C.
Zero at the centroidal axis and maximum at the outer surface of the member
Answer
D.
Maximum at the centroidal axis and zero at the outer surface of the member

Answer: Option C

Solution

Answer: Option C
Solution:
The torsional shear stress in a circular shaft varies linearly from the centre to the outer surface of the shaft.

According to the torsion equation:

τ = (T × r) / J

Where:
τ = Torsional shear stress
T = Applied torque
r = Radial distance from the centre
J = Polar moment of inertia

Since the stress is directly proportional to the radial distance (τ ∝ r):

• At the centroidal axis (r = 0): Shear stress is zero.
• At the outer surface (r = R): Shear stress is maximum.

Therefore, the correct statement is that the torsional shear stress is zero at the centroidal axis and maximum at the outer surface of the member.