Young's Modulus
Young's modulus (Y) is a fundamental property of materials that quantifies their ability to deform elastically (i.e., non-permanently) when a tensile or compressive force is applied. It is expressed mathematically as:
Y = σ / ε
where:
- σ is the tensile or compressive stress applied to the material, defined as the force (F) applied per unit area (A).
- ε is the longitudinal strain, defined as the change in length (∆L) divided by the original length (L) of the material.
Thus, Young’s modulus is given by:
Y = (F/A) / (∆L/L) = (F × L) / (A × ∆L)
This relationship shows that Young's modulus is the same regardless of whether the stress is tensile or compressive, indicating that materials exhibit similar elastic properties under both types of loading. Young's modulus has units of pressure (N/m² or Pascals). It is essential for engineers when designing structures and materials, allowing them to predict how materials will behave under various loads.