Applications of elastic behaviour of materials
Elasticity is the property of a material to regain its original shape and size after the removal of deforming forces. The concept of elasticity has several practical applications in daily life and various fields of science and engineering. Here, we’ll explore the key applications of the elastic behavior of materials.
1. Construction of Bridges
Elastic Materials in Bridges: The beams and girders used in the construction of bridges must be able to bear the load of vehicles and people while exhibiting elastic behavior. If the material undergoes significant plastic deformation, the structure would fail. Steel, a material with high elasticity, is often used in the construction of bridges because it can withstand heavy loads and return to its original state.
Safety under Loads: When a bridge is loaded, it bends slightly. The elasticity of the material helps ensure that the bridge does not experience permanent deformation after the load is removed.
2. Design of Buildings
Elasticity in Earthquake-resistant Structures: Buildings need to be constructed with materials that exhibit elastic properties to withstand stresses caused by natural forces such as wind and earthquakes. Materials like steel and concrete with high elasticity are used, as they can absorb the energy of seismic waves and return to their original shape, reducing damage during earthquakes.
Also Read: What is Acceleration- Acceleration formula and types in Physics Class 11
Material Selection: Engineers choose materials based on their Young’s modulus (a measure of elasticity). Higher Young's modulus indicates greater stiffness, making materials more suitable for withstanding structural loads.
3. Automobile Suspension Systems
Shock Absorbers: The suspension system of vehicles, including springs and shock absorbers, utilizes elastic materials to absorb shocks and vibrations from the road. This makes the ride smoother by allowing temporary deformation and then returning to the original shape.
Springs: Coil springs made of steel are used in cars to absorb impacts from bumps and dips on the road. These springs undergo elastic deformation to protect the vehicle and provide comfort to passengers.
4. Tennis Rackets and Balls
Sports Equipment: Elasticity plays a key role in sports equipment like tennis rackets and balls. The strings of a tennis racket, typically made from elastic materials like nylon or gut, deform when hitting the ball and return to their original position, providing a force that propels the ball forward.
Bouncing Balls: The elasticity of balls, such as in tennis or basketball, allows them to deform upon impact with the ground and then regain their shape, contributing to the bouncing motion.
5. Bow and Arrow
Elasticity in Archery: The bowstring and the body of the bow must be elastic. When the bowstring is pulled, it stores potential energy due to elastic deformation. Upon release, the bowstring snaps back to its original shape, converting the potential energy into kinetic energy that propels the arrow.
6. Elastic Tissues in the Human Body
Function in the Body: Elastic tissues, such as those in arteries, tendons, and skin, allow the human body to maintain flexibility and mobility. For instance, arteries need to expand and contract with the flow of blood, and tendons must stretch and return to their original form to transmit forces during movement.
Arteries: The elastic nature of arteries helps them expand to accommodate the high pressure of blood pumped from the heart and then return to their normal diameter to maintain a steady flow of blood.
7. Elastic Behavior in Musical Instruments
String Instruments: In instruments like guitars and violins, the strings are made from materials that exhibit elastic properties. When the strings are plucked or bowed, they undergo deformation and then vibrate, producing sound waves.
Drumheads: The membrane of drums is stretched over the frame, and its elasticity allows it to vibrate when struck, generating sound.
8. Railway Tracks
Steel Rails: Railway tracks are made from steel, a material known for its high elasticity. The rails need to bear heavy loads from trains without undergoing permanent deformation. The elasticity of steel ensures that even under stress, the tracks return to their original shape, maintaining the safety and efficiency of the railway system.
9. Metallic Springs and Other Devices
Springs in Clocks and Toys: Elastic materials like steel are used in clock springs and wind-up toys. These springs are wound to store energy, and as they unwind, they return to their original shape, powering the movement of the clock or toy.
Mechanical Devices: Elasticity is crucial in various mechanical devices like pressure gauges, weighing machines, and other instruments where the materials need to return to their original state after deformation.
10. Cables and Wires
Elasticity in Electric Wires: Cables and wires, especially those used for suspension bridges or elevators, are designed to have elastic properties. They can stretch slightly under loads and return to their original length, ensuring the structure's safety and functionality.
Telephone and Electrical Cables: These are often subjected to stretching forces, and their elastic behavior prevents them from being permanently deformed, ensuring long-term reliability.
Conclusion:
The elastic behavior of materials is vital in the design and functioning of many structures and devices around us. By choosing materials with the appropriate elasticity, engineers and scientists ensure the safety, durability, and performance of buildings, vehicles, medical devices, and even musical instruments.