Which statement describes the bottom, vertical-shaft bearing?

Which statement describes the bottom, vertical-shaft bearing?

• A. It is a thrust bearing.
• B. It is a sleeve bearing.
• C. It is a ball bearing.
• D. It is a bronze bearing.

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of bearing types based on the direction of the load they carry. A bottom, vertical-shaft arrangement puts axial load along the shaft’s axis, so the bearing there must support thrust forces rather than just resisting side-to-side movement. A thrust bearing is designed specifically to absorb these axial (thrust) loads and keep the shaft properly aligned as it turns. Sleeve or bronze bearings mainly handle radial loads and sliding support, not devoted axial support. Ball bearings can handle both radial and axial loads, but the situation described—the bottom position on a vertical shaft—most clearly points to a thrust bearing, which is built for axial support.

This question tests understanding of bearing types based on the direction of the load they carry. A bottom, vertical-shaft arrangement puts axial load along the shaft’s axis, so the bearing there must support thrust forces rather than just resisting side-to-side movement. A thrust bearing is designed specifically to absorb these axial (thrust) loads and keep the shaft properly aligned as it turns. Sleeve or bronze bearings mainly handle radial loads and sliding support, not devoted axial support. Ball bearings can handle both radial and axial loads, but the situation described—the bottom position on a vertical shaft—most clearly points to a thrust bearing, which is built for axial support.