elasticity and plasticity

Elasticity is the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being deformed by a force, like a rubber band stretching and snapping back. Plasticity, on the other hand, refers to a material permanently changing shape once a force is applied beyond its elastic limit, similar to bending a soft metal spoon until it stays bent. Essentially, elasticity involves reversible deformation, while plasticity involves permanent change. These properties determine how materials respond to forces and are important in engineering, manufacturing, and everyday objects.