The discussion revolves around the concept of forces, specifically contrasting tension, which is described as a pulling force, with its opposite, a pushing force. Participants explore the nature of these forces and their implications in material behavior.
There is an ongoing exploration of the definitions and implications of tension and compression forces. Some participants have offered insights into the relationship between external forces and internal forces, while others are questioning the assumptions related to force distribution in materials.
Participants are considering the effects of acceleration on the resulting forces and the differences between external applied forces and internal forces generated within materials. There is also mention of specific material properties, such as those of linear-elastic materials.
JDoolin said:Homework Statement
Tension is the force that pulls. What is the force that pushes?
Homework Equations
F=T
The Attempt at a Solution
Impact force? Pushing force? Something to do with Young's Modulus? F=stress*area?
kjohnson said:You are looking at the difference between external and internal forces. The external force is the applied force (sometimes called a boundary force). Because of the application of an external force you will generate internal forces. This is because everything must satisfy Newtons law F=ma. So if you make "fictitious cuts" as they are sometimes called in solid mechanics at any position along the material and sum forces on that piece, the forces must sum up correctly. If the material is static that means the external forces sum to zero, likewise if you study the sum of forces on any element of the material the forces must sum to zero as well. On the other hand if there is a net external force on material it will accelerate. For the same reason the sum of forces on any element must equal to the (elemental mass)(acceleration). That is the basic idea...