The correct option is (c) The in-plane displacements are zero in the absence of in-plane forces
The best explanation: For a linear theory based on infinitesimal strains and orthotropic material properties, the in-plane displacements (ux, uy) are uncoupled from the transverse deflection uz=w. The plane elasticity equations govern the in-plane displacements (ux, uy). The in-plane displacements are zero if there are no in-plane forces and hence, we discuss only the equations governing the bending deformation and the associated finite element models.