Question

Natural or intrinsic coordinate system is used to define ___________

(a) Co-ordinates

(b) Shape functions

(c) Displacement functions

(d) Both shape functions and co-ordinate functions

I had been asked this question at a job interview.

I need to ask this question from One Dimensional Problems in division One Dimensional Problems of Finite Element Method

Answer 1

The correct option is (b) Shape functions

The explanation is: Natural coordinate system is another way of representing direction. It is based on the relative motion of the object. We use this system of coordinates in defining shape functions, which are used in interpolating the displacement field.