Equation of Virtual Work VS Potential Energy

rdbateman

For linear elastic materials (3D General)...

The virtual work equation looks exactly like the equation for potential energy except that in the potential energy equation, the internal work term has a (1/2) coefficient. Why are these different?

Studiot

Do you know why the potential energy has a 1/2 coefficient?

It has to do with the method of application of the loads, which is different for VW.

rdbateman

That doesn't answer the question.

Studiot

Actually I did provide an answer, albeit very short.

But I still don't know if you understand where the 1/2 comes from.