Shearing

Shearing is a force that occurs when different parts of a material or object slide past each other in opposite directions, causing deformation or failure. Imagine tearing a piece of paper by applying forces to opposite edges; the paper experiences shear stress. It is common in materials that are subjected to parallel forces, like scissors cutting fabric or layers of a rock sliding past each other in geology. Shearing can lead to distortion, cracks, or breakdown of structures if the material cannot withstand the applied forces. It is a fundamental concept in mechanics, materials science, and geology.