Elastic Deformation

Key Stage 3

Elastic deformation is when an object changes shape due to equilibrium forces but returns to its original shape when those equilibrium forces are removed.

In elastic deformation the extension of an object is increases as the force increases.

Elastic materials can be deformed (stretched) so far that they break, or start to deform plastically.

Some common elastic materials are:

Elastic deformation is when an object changes shape due to equilibrium forces but returns to its original shape when those equilibrium forces are removed.

In elastic deformation the extension of an object is directly proportional to the equilibrium forces applied.

Elastic materials can be deformed so far that they reach their elastic limit and begin to deform inelastically.