Elasticity

Elasticity is a fundamental concept in the field of physics and materials science, referring to the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or deformed. It is a property that is inherent in many materials, including most metals, rubber, and biological tissues.

Definition

In physics, elasticity is defined as the ability of a body to resist a distorting influence or stress and to return to its original size and shape when the stress is removed. The physical reasons for elastic behavior can be quite different for different materials. In metals, the atomic lattice changes size and shape when forces are applied (energy is added to the system). When forces are removed, the lattice goes back to the original lower energy state.

Types of Elasticity

There are several types of elasticity, including:

• Elastic limit: The maximum stress that a material can withstand without permanent deformation.
• Elastic modulus: A measure of the stiffness of a material. It is defined as the ratio of stress (force per unit area) to strain (proportional deformation).
• Elastic potential energy: The potential energy stored in a material due to its deformation.

Elasticity in Biology

In biology, elasticity is especially important in the function of many types of tissues. For example, arteries need to be elastic to cope with the pressure of the blood that is pumped from the heart. The lungs also need to be elastic to allow for the expansion and contraction that occurs with breathing.

See Also

• Hooke's Law
• Stress-strain curve
• Young's modulus