Theories of Failure MCQ – Objective Questions with Answers
Mechanical Engineering › Strength of Materials | Free practice MCQs with detailed explanations
Last Updated: June 2026
📌 About this MCQ Set
Theories of failure predict when a material under combined (multiaxial) stress will fail, by relating the complex stress state to simple uniaxial test data.
These MCQs cover the major theories and the materials they suit best.
8 questions • every answer comes with a worked explanation. Click Show Answer to check yourself.
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Theories of Failure MCQs
Q1. The maximum principal stress theory is also known as:
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Answer: B. Rankine’s theory
The maximum principal (normal) stress theory is Rankine’s theory.
Q2. The maximum shear stress theory is also known as:
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Answer: B. Tresca / Guest’s theory
The maximum shear stress theory is Tresca’s (Guest’s) theory.
Q3. The maximum distortion energy theory is also known as:
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Answer: A. Von Mises theory
The maximum distortion (shear strain) energy theory is the von Mises theory.
Q4. The maximum principal strain theory is associated with:
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Answer: B. Saint-Venant
The maximum principal strain theory is Saint-Venant’s theory.
Q5. The von Mises (distortion energy) theory is most suitable for:
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Answer: B. Ductile materials
Von Mises theory best predicts yielding of ductile materials and is the most widely used.
Q6. Rankine’s (maximum principal stress) theory is best suited for:
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Answer: B. Brittle materials
The maximum principal stress theory works best for brittle materials such as cast iron.
Q7. Tresca’s theory is based on the:
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Answer: B. Maximum shear stress
Tresca’s criterion states failure occurs when the maximum shear stress reaches a critical value.
Q8. The total strain energy theory is also known as:
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Answer: A. Haigh’s theory
The total strain energy theory is Haigh’s theory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are theories of failure used for?
To predict when a material under combined multiaxial stress will yield or fracture, using data from a simple uniaxial tension test.
Which failure theory is best for ductile materials?
The maximum distortion energy (von Mises) theory is the most accurate and widely used for ductile materials; the maximum shear stress (Tresca) theory is also common and conservative.
Which failure theory is best for brittle materials?
The maximum principal stress (Rankine) theory is most suitable for brittle materials such as cast iron.