A W 310 ( 74 wide-flange steel column with length L = 3.8 m is fixed at the base and free at the top (see figure). The load P acting on the column is intended to be centrally applied, but because of unavoidable discrepancies in construction, an eccentricity ratio of 0.25 is specified. Also, the following data are supplied: E = 200 GPa, (Y = 290 MPa and P = 310 kN.
(a) What is the maximum compressive stress (max in the column?
(b) What is the factor of safety n with respect to yielding of the steel?