Question

What is elasticity?

Answer 1

In order to answer this question, first we will explain the concept of elasticity and then we will discuss the factors that affect the elasticity. We will also discuss how elasticity relates to the mechanics of motion.

Complete step by step answer:
Elasticity is the ability of a body to resist a distorting influence and to revert to its original size and shape when that influence or force is removed in physics and materials science. When sufficient weights are applied to solid objects, they will deform; if the material is elastic, the object will return to its original shape and size following removal. Plasticity, on the other hand, occurs when an object fails to do so and stays in its distorted state.

For different materials, the physical reasons for elastic behaviour might be quite varied.When forces are applied to metals, the atomic lattice changes size and shape (energy is added to the system). The lattice returns to its original lower energy state when forces are eliminated. Elasticity is created by the stretching of polymer chains when forces are applied to rubbers and other polymers.

The genuine reaction of springs and other elastic bodies to applied forces is only approximated by Hooke's law, which is a first-order linear approximation. It will eventually fail if the forces surpass a certain limit, because no material can be squeezed or stretched beyond a particular minimum or maximum size without irreversible distortion or change of state. Before the elastic limits are reached, many materials will diverge noticeably from Hooke's rule.

Factors that affect the elasticity:-
Hammering and rolling: By hammering and rolling crystal grains, smaller units are formed. As a result, the material's elasticity improves.
Annealing: The metals are annealed by gradually heating and cooling them. The elasticity of the material is reduced when it is annealed.
Temperature: As the temperature rises, the intermolecular forces diminish. As a result, elasticity reduces as temperature rises, while invar steel (alloy) elasticity does not change with temperature.
Impurities: Elasticity can increase or decrease as a result of impurities in a substance.The sort of effect is determined by the nature of the impurities in the substance.

Note: When the forces that caused the deformation are eliminated, elasticity refers to the ability of a distorted material body to return to its original shape and size. Elastic behaviour (or response) is a term used to describe a body that has this flexibility. Equations of motion of linear elastic entities in solid mechanics.