modulus of elasticity

The modulus of elasticity, often called the elastic modulus, measures a material's ability to deform under stress. It quantifies how much a material stretches or compresses when a force is applied. A higher modulus indicates that the material is stiffer and resists deformation, while a lower modulus suggests it is more flexible. For example, steel has a high modulus of elasticity, making it rigid, while rubber has a low modulus, allowing it to stretch easily. This property is important in engineering, construction, and manufacturing, as it helps determine how materials will behave under different loads.