Where does the maximum compressive stress occur in a beam with a negative bending moment?

In a beam subjected to a negative bending moment, the bending moment creates a curved shape that is concave upwards. This condition indicates that the upper fibers of the beam are in tension while the lower fibers are in compression. Therefore, the maximum compressive stress occurs at the bottom of the beam, just as it would in the case of a positive bending moment where the top experiences compression.

Understanding the behavior of beams under bending is essential. When a negative moment is applied, the geometry and material behavior lead to the reversal of the typical stress distribution found in positive moments. This knowledge is crucial in structural engineering, particularly in ensuring the accurate analysis and design of beams and other structural elements to handle the different loading scenarios they may encounter.