Undergrad Question about elasticity to help my understanding

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the concept of elasticity, specifically its formula ΔP/ΔV, which defines the relationship between pressure change and volume change. Participants noted that while elasticity typically refers to materials returning to their original shape, wood's heterogeneous and anisotropic properties limit its classification as elastic under all conditions. The conversation also highlighted the importance of the bulk modulus K in linear isotropic elasticity and the existence of more general elasticity forms for complex materials. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurately describing material behavior under stress.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly elasticity and pressure-volume relationships.
  • Familiarity with linear isotropic elasticity and its application in material science.
  • Knowledge of material properties such as anisotropy and heterogeneity.
  • Basic grasp of physical constants like bulk modulus K.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the full formula for linear isotropic elasticity and its applications.
  • Explore the concept of compressibility and its relationship to elasticity.
  • Study the differences between isotropic and anisotropic materials in material science.
  • Investigate general forms of elasticity applicable to complex materials.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, material scientists, and engineers interested in understanding the mechanical properties of materials, particularly in relation to elasticity and stress analysis.

samy4408
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Hello, today we learned about elasticity, whose formula was the change of pressure over the volume change (∆p/∆v), which seemed very weird compared to the use of the adjective elastic daily, my question is can we say that a piece of wood is very elastic? because even applying a large pressure will not change the volume that much.
hoping for a replay, and thanks.
 
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I agree it seems very odd. The reciprocal of elasticity is compressibility, which seems to suit the purpose better.
 
What is the full formula?
Linear isotropic elasticity requires two physical constants. One of them, the bulk modulus K, is explained with ΔP/ΔV. In the literature, you will find more than 2 constants, but any two of them can be used to explain things uniquely. There are formulas to convert between them.
An elastic material returns to its original size and shape when applied forces are removed. Large enough forces can cause inelastic behavior.
Wood is heterogenous and anisotropic, so linear isotropic elasticity can only be used in certain situations. There are more general forms of elasticity that can be used for more general cases.
 
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