Elasticity
Science: KS3, topic 3.2.23
Stretching and Squashing
Some materials can be stretched and squashed if they have elastic properties. If an object changes shape, this is called deformation.
Stretching
- Some objects are able to change shape by stretching.
- If an object can stretch, we can measure its extension because it will be longer.
- If we stretch an object, we must do work or transfer energy to stretch it.
- If an object is stretched, it will have tension.
- If an object is stretched, it is deformed.
Squashing
- Squashing an object will also lead to deformation.
- When we squash an object, it will be shorter.
- When an object is squashed by a force we say it has been compressed.
Deformation
- Sometimes, objects do not return to their original shape after they have been squashed or stretched.
- This is called inelastic deformation.
- When objects return to their original shape, we call this elastic deformation.
- The more force you apply to an object, the more it will be deformed.
Test yourself on Elasticity
A plastic ruler is bent and then returns to its original shape when the force is removed. What type of deformation has happened?
Which of these are true of deformation?