The quantity Q is used in calculating the transverse shear stress in a beam. Q can be defined as the first moment of the cross-sectional area above (or below) the point at which the shear stress is being evaluated. The first moment is taken about the neutral axis.

In this game, you will be asked to determine Q for a number of common cross-sectional configurations.

To acquaint you with the way this game is played, we'll start with a brief practice round. Click the next button to begin.