The Strength of Materials

Strength of materials is a field of engineering that studies how different materials respond to forces and loads. It helps determine how much stress a material can withstand before it deforms or fractures. Key properties include tensile strength (resistance to pulling apart), compression strength (resistance to squeezing), and shear strength (resistance to sliding forces). Understanding these properties ensures that structures like bridges, buildings, and machinery are safe and durable. Essentially, it guides engineers in choosing the right materials and design to prevent failure under various forces, ensuring safety and longevity.