THEORETICAL Strengths Of Materials.

In summary, theoretical strengths of materials are the maximum stress or load a material can withstand under ideal conditions without any external factors. They are determined through mathematical calculations and models based on the material's properties. Understanding theoretical strengths is important for designing safe and reliable structures. However, they may be higher than actual strengths as they do not account for real-world factors. Theoretical strengths can be improved through various methods, but the actual strength will still depend on inherent properties and external factors.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



1) Why, in general, do brittle materials not achieve their theoretical tensile strengths?

2) Why, in general, do ductile materials not achieve their theoretical shear strengths?

Homework Equations



None needed. Wordy answer.

The Attempt at a Solution



Something to do with the stress intensity factor / defects for brittle materials??

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
You're going in the right direction for the brittle part. What's your answer for ductile materials? It might be useful to think about how the theoretical strength is determined; that is, how the material is envisioned to fail when the theoretical strength is calculated.
 

1. What is the definition of theoretical strengths of materials?

Theoretical strengths of materials refer to the maximum stress or load a material can withstand under ideal conditions, without taking into account any external factors such as defects or imperfections.

2. How are theoretical strengths of materials determined?

Theoretical strengths of materials are determined through mathematical calculations and models based on the material's properties, such as its stiffness, ductility, and interatomic bonding.

3. What is the importance of understanding theoretical strengths of materials?

Understanding theoretical strengths of materials is crucial in designing and engineering structures that can withstand expected loads and stresses, ensuring their safety and reliability.

4. How do theoretical strengths of materials compare to actual strengths?

Theoretical strengths of materials are typically higher than their actual strengths because they do not account for real-world factors that can weaken the material, such as manufacturing defects or environmental conditions.

5. Can theoretical strengths of materials be improved?

Yes, theoretical strengths of materials can be improved through various methods such as alloying, heat treatment, and material processing techniques. However, the actual strength of a material will still depend on its inherent properties and external factors.

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