State what is meant by the compressive strength of a material

In summary, compressive strength is a measure of a material's ability to withstand compressive forces, such as pushing or squeezing. It is typically measured in pounds per square inch or megapascals. This strength is determined through testing with a compressive strength machine, where the maximum force the material can withstand before breaking is recorded. Various factors can affect compressive strength, including composition, density, moisture content, manufacturing process, and external forces. It is important in materials science as it helps engineers and scientists design structures and products that can withstand heavy loads or pressure. It differs from tensile strength, which measures a material's ability to withstand pulling or stretching forces. Both measures are important in understanding a material's overall strength and durability.
  • #1
CharS
5
0
1. State what is meant by the compressive strength of a material


3. The answer given in the mark scheme says - (compressive) stress/F/A/pressure AND to
break/yield/shatter

does anyone know what the answer to this question is? i don't really understand! thanks.
 
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  • #2
"Strength" usually means the amount of stress a material can withstand before something undesirable (like yield or fracture) occurs. Stress is measured in the same units as pressure, or force per unit area. Does this answer your question?
 
  • #3


The compressive strength of a material refers to its ability to resist being compressed or squeezed together. It is a measure of the maximum compressive stress that a material can withstand before it breaks, yields, or shatters. This strength is typically measured in units of force per unit area (such as pounds per square inch or megapascals). In other words, it is a measure of the amount of pressure that a material can withstand before it deforms or fails.
 

1. What is the definition of compressive strength?

Compressive strength is a measure of a material's ability to withstand compressive forces, or forces that push or squeeze the material together. It is typically measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or megapascals (MPa).

2. How is the compressive strength of a material determined?

The compressive strength of a material is determined through testing using a compressive strength machine. This involves applying a compressive force to a sample of the material until it breaks, and then recording the maximum amount of force that the material was able to withstand before breaking.

3. What factors affect the compressive strength of a material?

There are several factors that can affect the compressive strength of a material, including its composition, density, and moisture content. Additionally, the manufacturing process and any external forces applied to the material can also impact its compressive strength.

4. Why is compressive strength important in materials science?

Compressive strength is an important measure in materials science as it helps engineers and scientists understand how a material will behave under compressive forces. This information is crucial in designing structures or products that need to withstand heavy loads or pressure.

5. How does compressive strength differ from tensile strength?

Compressive strength measures a material's ability to withstand compressive forces, while tensile strength measures its ability to withstand tensile forces, or forces that pull or stretch the material. Both measures are important in understanding a material's overall strength and durability.

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