Question

A cable that can support a load $W$ is cut into two equal parts. The maximum load that can be supported by either part is :

• A. $\frac{W}{4}$
• B. $\frac{W}{2}$
• C. $W$
• D. $2W$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

When the cable is cut into two equal parts, then maximum load that can be supported by either parts of the cable remain the same as before. Since, Breaking stress $=\frac{F}{A}$
Where, $F$ is the force and $A$ is the area of cross section. Breaking is independent of length of cable. So, load remains the same when a load $W$ is cut.