Tensile stress with unequal forces

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating tensile stress (σ) in a system subjected to unequal forces. The stress is defined as normal force divided by area (N/m²). It is established that the maximum stress occurs at the front end of the sample, where the force is greatest due to acceleration. Participants recommend using a Free Body Diagram and applying Newton's 2nd Law to determine the forces acting at various sections of the sample, including the front, back, and middle.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of tensile stress and its formula (σ = F/A)
  • Familiarity with Newton's 2nd Law of motion
  • Ability to create and interpret Free Body Diagrams
  • Basic knowledge of force distribution in accelerating systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of tensile stress in materials
  • Learn how to construct and analyze Free Body Diagrams
  • Explore Newton's 2nd Law applications in dynamic systems
  • Research force distribution in non-uniformly loaded beams
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in material science or structural analysis will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in understanding stress distribution in systems with unequal forces.

juraj5
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I need to find the stress σ (defined as normal force/area, in N/m^2) for the following simple situation. The forces are not equal. I can't wrap my head around what's going on - the whole system should be accelerated, so what's the final force that should be used for calculating the stress?
 

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Shouldn't it depend where along the length of the sample you evaluate the stress? I think the stress will be greatest at the "front" end, the end moving forward?
 
The force and hence the stress in the accelerating sample is variable, and at a maximum, as Spinnor has noted, at the 'front' end. You should draw a Free Body Diagram and apply Newton's 2nd Law to find what force acts at any given section, and in particular, what is the force at the front end? Back end? Middle?
 

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