Question

The stress-strain curves vary from material to material. These curves help us to understand how a given material deforms with increasing loads. From the graph, we can see that in the region between O to A, the curve is linear. In this region, Hooke's law is obeyed. The body regains its original dimensions when the applied force is removed. In this region, the solid behaves as an elastic body.

The property of a body, by virtue of which it tends to regain its original size and shape when the applied force is removed, is known as elasticity and the deformation caused is known as elastic deformation. However, if we apply force to a lump of putty or mud, they have no gross tendency to regain their previous shape, and they get permanently deformed. Such substances are called plastic and this property is called plasticity. Putty and mud are close to ideal plastics. The elastic behaviour of materials plays an important role in engineering design. For example, while designing a building, knowledge of elastic properties of materials like steel, concrete etc. is essential. The same is true in the design of bridges, automobiles, ropeways etc. When a body is subjected to a deforming force, a restoring force is developed in the body. This restoring force is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the applied force. The restoring force per unit area is known as stress. If F is the force applied normal to the cross–section and A is the area of cross section of the body, magnitude of the stress is given by F/A.

The ratio of stress and strain, called modulus of elasticity, is found to be a characteristic of the material. Experimental observation shows that for a given material, the magnitude of the strain produced is same whether the stress is tensile or compressive. The ratio of tensile (or compressive) stress (σ) to the longitudinal strain (ε) is defined as Young's modulus and is denoted by the symbol Y. Y = Stress (σ)/Strain (ε) = (F/A)/(ΔL/L) = F × L/(A × ΔL) Since strain is a dimensionless quantity, the unit of Young's modulus is the same as that of stress i.e., N m-2 or Pascal (Pa)

Assertion: Spring balances show correct readings even after they had been used for a long time interval. Reason: On using for long time, spring balances enhances its elastic strength.