Word: Modulus of Rigidity
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The modulus of rigidity is a measure of how much a material resists being deformed when a shearing force is applied to it. In simpler terms, it tells us how stiff or flexible a material is when you push or pull it sideways.
Usage Instructions:
The term is mainly used in physics and engineering, especially when discussing the properties of materials.
It's often used when comparing different materials to see which one is stiffer or more flexible.
Example:
If you are comparing steel and rubber, you might say, "Steel has a higher modulus of rigidity than rubber, which means it is much stiffer and does not deform easily under pressure."
Advanced Usage:
In engineering contexts, the modulus of rigidity is often represented by the symbol "G" and is calculated using the formula: ( G = \frac{\tau}{\gamma} ), where ( \tau ) is the shear stress and ( \gamma ) is the shear strain.
Engineers might refer to the modulus of rigidity when designing structures that need to withstand forces without bending or breaking.
Word Variants:
Different Meanings:
Synonyms:
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs associated with "modulus of rigidity," you might hear related phrases in engineering contexts such as "push the limits," meaning to test how much a material can withstand before it fails.
Summary:
The modulus of rigidity is an important concept in material science and engineering, helping us understand how materials behave under shearing forces.