Question

Three short square wood blocks measuring 3.5 per side support a machine weighing 29500 lbs. What is the compressive stress in the blocks

A. 798lbs
B. 421lbs
C. 1404lbs
D. 803lb

Answer 1

D. 803 lbs

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to find the compressive stress on all three blocks we first need to find the normal surface area of each:

Surface Area of 1 Block = 3.5 x 3.5

Surface Area of 1 Block = 12.25

Surface Area of all 3 Blocks = A = 3 x 12.25

Area = 36.75

Now, the stress is given by the following formula:

Stress = Force/Area

Stress = 29500 lbs/36.75

Stress = 802.72 lbs

Hence, the correct option will be:

D. 803 lbs