Answer :
Final answer:
The tensile stress in a thin strip of steel with the given dimensions and weight is calculated to be 10 psi, using the formula for tensile stress (force per unit area). Therefore, the correct option is b) 10 psi.
Explanation:
The question asks us to calculate the tensile stress in a thin strip of steel that is hanging vertically from a support. Tensile stress is defined as the force per unit area within materials that arises from externally applied forces. It is given by the formula au = F / A, where F is the force in newtons (N) or pounds (lb), and A is the cross-sectional area in square meters (m²) or square inches (in²).
In this case, the force is due to the weight of the strip (w), which is 2.5 lb, and the cross-sectional area is 0.25 in². To find the tensile stress, we divide the weight by the area:
au = w / A
au = 2.5 lb / 0.25 in²
au = 10 psi
Therefore, the tensile stress in the strip is 10 psi.
