Q. The equivalent axial tensile load Pe, which produces an average axial tensile stress in the section equivalent to the combined stress due to axial tension P and bending M, at the extreme fibre of the section, is given by (where Z is the section modulus of the section).

• (A) Pe = P + MA/Z
• (B) Pe = P - MA/Z
• (C) Pe = P - Z/MA
• (D) Pe = P + Z/MA