Topic: Strength of Materials
If water in closed pipe freezes, the pipe will
- A. Rupture along a plane perpendicular to the axis of pipe
- B. Rupture of zig-zag along the length
- C. Rupture along weakest circumferential section
- D. Rupture along a line running longitudinally along the pipe
Answer: D. Rupture along a line running longitudinally along the pipe
Explanation: When water freezes, it expands and exerts internal pressure on the pipe. In a cylindrical pipe subjected to internal pressure, the circumferential (hoop) stress is twice the longitudinal stress. Therefore, the failure will take place along the longitudinal joint (running longitudinally) because of the higher hoop stress.