What is the physical interpretation of the shear modulus?
- AResistance to change in shape without change in volumeCorrect
- BResistance to change in volume without change in shape
- CResistance to axial deformation
- DResistance to bending
Solution
Concept
Physical interpretation of shear modulus
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Shear modulus, or modulus of rigidity, measures a material's elastic response to shear stresses. 2. It reflects the structural resistance to shape changes produced by applied transverse forces. Answer: A
Explanation
Shear modulus, or the modulus of rigidity, measures a material's response to shear stress. It quantifies how much a body resists distortion or change in shape when subjected to opposing shear forces without altering its volume. Thus, option A accurately describes the physical meaning of shear modulus.
Why the other options are wrong
B) Resistance to volume change without shape change defines the bulk modulus. C) Resistance to axial deformation is measured by Young's modulus rather than shear modulus.
Shortcut
Shear modulus (G) = resistance to Shape change; Bulk modulus (K) = resistance to Volume change.
Common mistake
Confusing shear modulus with bulk modulus and selecting option B, which describes resistance to volume change.
Correct answer: A) Resistance to change in shape without change in volume