Physics: definitions of stress and strain
Tutoring physics, you might encounter the concepts of stress and strain. The tutor defines them.
In physics, stress and strain are related, but have very different meanings. A helpful idea is that stress is imposed on an object, while strain measures its reaction.
stress noun:
the force per unit area applied to an object. In this context, the object is likely not mobile; therefore, the stress likely has the effect of changing its shape, possibly not permanently.
the force per unit area applied to an object. In this context, the object is likely not mobile; therefore, the stress likely has the effect of changing its shape, possibly not permanently.
strain noun:
the change in length the object experiences (resulting from the stress), divided by its original length. An object compressed from 100.cm to 90.cm experiences a strain of -10./100., or -0.10 (aka -10.%).
the change in length the object experiences (resulting from the stress), divided by its original length. An object compressed from 100.cm to 90.cm experiences a strain of -10./100., or -0.10 (aka -10.%).
Source:
Giancoli, Douglas C. Physics, 5th ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 1998.
Jack of Oracle Tutoring by Jack and Diane, Campbell River, BC.
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