The maximum shear stress (qmax) in a rectangular beam is A. 1.25 times the average B. 1.50 times the average C. 1.75 times the average D. 2.0 times the average

1.25 times the average
1.50 times the average
1.75 times the average
2.0 times the average

The correct answer is: The maximum shear stress (qmax) in a rectangular beam is 1.50 times the average.

The shear stress in a beam is the force per unit area that acts parallel to the cross-section of the beam. The average shear stress is equal to the shear force divided by the area of the cross-section. The maximum shear stress occurs at the neutral axis of the beam, which is the axis that passes through the centroid of the cross-section. The maximum shear stress is equal to 1.5 times the average shear stress.

The following is a brief explanation of each option:

  • Option A: 1.25 times the average. This is incorrect because the maximum shear stress is not equal to 1.25 times the average shear stress.
  • Option B: 1.50 times the average. This is the correct answer because the maximum shear stress is equal to 1.5 times the average shear stress.
  • Option C: 1.75 times the average. This is incorrect because the maximum shear stress is not equal to 1.75 times the average shear stress.
  • Option D: 2.0 times the average. This is incorrect because the maximum shear stress is not equal to 2.0 times the average shear stress.