Moment Distribution Method

What is the primary purpose of the Moment Distribution Method in structural analysis?

• To determine the deflections of a beam

• To calculate the support reactions of statically determinate structures

• To analyze indeterminate structures and calculate moments at joints

• To calculate axial forces in truss members

In the Moment Distribution Method, what does the term "distribution factor" represent?

• The ratio of moment at one end to the total moment in the system

• The fraction of unbalanced moment that is distributed to each connected member

• The total moment distributed to a beam segment

• The bending stiffness of the beam

What condition must be satisfied for the Moment Distribution Method to be applied to a continuous beam?

• The beam must be statically determinate

• The beam must have constant cross-section

• All supports must be fixed

• The structure must be statically indeterminate

What is the role of the "carry-over factor" in the Moment Distribution Method?

• It indicates the moment distributed to an adjacent span

• It accounts for the moment carried over to the opposite end of a member

• It distributes moments based on loading conditions

• It calculates the deflection at the midpoint of the span

Which of the following is TRUE about the distribution factor in the Moment Distribution Method?

• It is always equal to 1

• It depends on the relative stiffness of the members meeting at a joint

• It is independent of the moment of inertia of the members

• It depends only on the length of the members