(a) A three-point transverse bending test is conducted on a cylindrical specimen of aluminum oxide having a reported flexural strength of 300 MPa (43,500 psi). If the specimen radius is 5.0 mm (0.20 in.) and the support point separation distance is 15.0 mm (0.61 in.), would you expect the specimen to fracture when a load of 7500 N (1690 lbf) is applied? Justify your answer.

(b) Would you be 100% certain of the answer in part (a)? Why or why not?