The 'principle of minimum potential energy' in structural analysis states:
Choose the correct answer
Maximum stress always governs design
True displacement field minimises total potential energy (strain energy minus work by external loads) among compatible fields
Load must be applied at minimum eccentricity
The frame must collapse to minimise energy
Correct Answer
B. True displacement field minimises total potential energy (strain energy minus work by external loads) among compatible fields
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Min potential energy: among all kinematically admissible displacement fields, the correct solution (satisfying equilibrium) makes the total potential energy Π = strain energy U − work done W a minimum. Used to derive finite element stiffness equations. Extension of virtual work principle. For linear elastic systems: δΠ = 0 → stiffness equation [K]{d} = {F}.
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