What is the reason behind the stress being zero when stretching a rod?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that when a rod is subjected to two equal and opposite forces, the net external force is zero, resulting in no movement and maintaining equilibrium. According to the formula for stress, which is defined as internal force divided by area, the stress becomes zero when considering the total applied force as zero. However, internal forces still exist within the rod, producing internal stress on any section of the rod, as illustrated by a Free Body Diagram. This aligns with Newton's First Law, confirming that internal stresses can exist even when external forces are balanced.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's First Law of Motion
  • Knowledge of stress calculation (Stress = Force / Area)
  • Familiarity with Free Body Diagrams
  • Basic concepts of equilibrium in physics
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  • Study the principles of internal vs. external forces in mechanics
  • Learn about stress distribution in materials under load
  • Explore advanced topics in material science, such as yield strength and elasticity
  • Review examples of equilibrium in static systems
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of stress and equilibrium in materials under force.

ajayguhan
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I know that I'm wrong but couldn't find where I'm

Stress=internal force /area

When the body is in equilibrium, force applied equals internal force.therefore stress=force applied/area
Let us stretch a rod by two equal and opposite force.,say f and -f...thus total force is zero

Stress= force applied/area
Stress=0 , since total force applied is zero

When we stretch a rod, there is a stress. How come it came zero for me...?



Thanks in advance.
 
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The net external force acting on the rod is zero, therefore, the rod is in equilibrium and is not moving (or moving at constant velocity), in accordance with Newton's First Law.

Now draw a Free Body Diagram of a piece of the rod, by pictorially cutting it say down the middle and examining the force acting on the cut end. Since the piece of the rod is also not moving, the net force on that cut piece must also be zero, and thus the force on the cut end must also be F, again in accordance with Newton's first law. This is an internal force, producing an internal stress F/A on that cut section, or any section of the rod.
 

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