Some Intriguing Results Pertaining to Functionally Graded Columns

Abstract

Some intriguing results are reported in conjunction with closed form solutions obtained for a clampedfree vibrating inhomogeneous column under an axial concentrated load using the semiinverse method. Fourth order polynomial is postulated for both the vibration mode shape and buckling displacement. Solution is provided for the flexural rigidity and the natural frequency. It is shown that, for each level of axial loading, there may exist up to five flexural rigidities satisfying the governing differential equation and boundary conditions.