Breaking stress is a term used to describe the maximum stress to which a material can be subjected before it breaks or fractures. The spelling of the word "breaking stress" in IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈbreɪkɪŋ ˈstrɛs/. The first syllable "break" is pronounced with the vowel sound /eɪ/ as in "say". The second syllable "ing" is pronounced with the nasal sound /ɪŋ/ as in "king". The third syllable "stress" is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɛ/ as in "bet".
Breaking stress refers to the maximum amount of stress that a material can withstand before it fractures or breaks. It is a crucial concept in the field of materials science and engineering, as it helps determine the structural integrity and safety of various objects and components.
Also known as ultimate tensile strength or ultimate strength, breaking stress is typically measured in units of force per unit area, such as pounds per square inch (psi) or pascals (Pa). It signifies the point at which a material can no longer withstand the load or force being applied to it, causing it to physically rupture or fail.
Breaking stress is influenced by several factors including the material's inherent properties, such as its chemical composition, crystal structure, and grain size. Other factors that can affect breaking stress include temperature, strain rate, and the presence of impurities or defects within the material.
The breaking stress value is often determined through experimental testing using specialized instruments, such as a universal testing machine. These tests involve subjecting a standardized test specimen of the material to an increasing load until it fractures. The breaking stress is then recorded and analyzed to assess the material's suitability for various applications, such as construction, manufacturing, or product design.
Understanding the breaking stress of a material is essential for engineers, architects, and designers as it helps ensure the structural integrity and safety of their creations. By considering breaking stress values, professionals can make informed decisions about material selection, design modifications, and load capacities to prevent structural failures and accidents.
The word "breaking stress" is a term used in materials science and engineering to describe the maximum amount of stress a material can endure before it breaks or fractures.
The etymology of "breaking stress" primarily stems from the use of the word "break" combined with "stress". The word "break" originated in Old English as "brecan", which meant "to separate into parts" or "to shatter". It ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "brekan".
The term "stress" has its roots in the Latin word "strictus", meaning "drawn tight" or "tightness". It later evolved into the Old French word "estrece", which referred to physical or mental distress. The modern understanding of "stress" as a force exerted upon an object, substance, or person came into use in the field of physics during the 17th century.