Final answer:
In the column analogy method for fixed beams, the analogous column's area (Ac) related to a beam's flexural rigidity is given by the formula Ac = L/4EI.
Therefore, the correct answer is: option d). L/4EI
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of structural engineering and specifically with regard to the column analogy method for analyzing fixed beams, the issue is determining the area of an analogous column (Ac) that represents the flexural behavior of the beam.
The analogy equates the stiffness of the column with the flexural rigidity of the beam to analyze the beam's behavior under load.
The area of the analogous column (Ac) for a fixed beam of span l (length) and flexural rigidity EI (where E is the modulus of elasticity and I is the moment of inertia of the beam's cross section) is calculated using a specific formula.
It involves the beam's length and flexural rigidity. For such a beam, the relevant expression for an analogous column's area is Ac = L/4EI.