Engineering Stress-Strain Curve

The engineering stress-strain curve illustrates how a material responds to loads, showing how it stretches and eventually breaks. "Stress" measures the force applied per unit area, while "strain" measures how much the material stretches relative to its original length. Initially, the material deforms elastically, meaning it returns to its original shape when unloaded. As the load increases, it reaches a yield point where permanent deformation occurs. Further loading leads to plastic deformation and eventually fracture. This curve helps engineers understand material strength, ductility, and toughness, guiding the design of safe and reliable structures and components.