Shear deformation

Definition

Shear deformation occurs when an object is subjected to a force that causes layers of the material to slide past each other. It results in a change in shape without a significant change in volume.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shear stress is defined as the force per unit area parallel to the surface, given by $\tau = F / A$.
2. The shear modulus, or modulus of rigidity, quantifies an object's ability to resist shear deformation and is denoted by $G$.
3. In materials science, shear deformation is analyzed using the relationship $\gamma = \frac{F}{A G}$ where $\gamma$ is the shear strain.
4. Shear deformation can occur in both solids and fluids; however, solids have a fixed structure while fluids flow under shear stress.
5. An example of shear deformation in everyday life is cutting paper with scissors, where the blades apply opposing forces causing the paper to slide apart.

Review Questions

• What is the formula for calculating shear stress?
• How does the shear modulus relate to an object's resistance to shear deformation?
• Can you provide an example of shear deformation from daily life?

Related terms

Shear Stress: The force per unit area parallel to the surface exerted on a material.

Shear Strain: The angular distortion produced in a material due to applied shear stress.

Elasticity: The property of materials that return to their original shape after being deformed when the applied stress is removed.