# Stress in Physics | Definition, Formulas, Types – Elasticity

Stress Definition in Physics:
1. Stress in Physics is Defined as the internal restoring force acting per unit area of a deformed body is called stress.

2. In physics, stress is the force acting on the unit area of a material. The effect of stress on a body is named as strain. Stress can deform the body. It is denoted by σ.

We are giving a detailed and clear sheet on all Physics Notes that are very useful to understand the Basic Physics Concepts.

## Stress in Physics | Definition, Formulas, Types – Elasticity

Stress in Physics Formula:

Stress = $$\frac{\text { Restoring force }}{\text { Area }}$$

σ = $$\frac{F}{A}$$

Where,
σ = Stress
F = Restoring Force measured in Newton or N
A = Cross-section area measured in m²

Stress Units Physics:
Its SI unit is N/m² or pascal

Stress Dimensional Formula:
Dimensional formula is [ML-1T-2].
Stress is a tensor quantity because it describes things happening in two directions simultaneously.

### Stress Types Physics

Stress is of three types:

• Normal Stress
• Volumetric Stress
• Tangential Stress

(i) Normal Stress Definition:

• If deforming force is applied normally to an object, then the stress is called normal stress.
• If there is an increase in length, then stress is called tensile stress.
• If there is a decrease in length, then stress is called compression stress.

(ii) Volumetric Stress Definition:
If deforming force is applied normally on an object all over its surface, that changes its volume, then the stress is called volumetric stress.

(iii) Tangential Stress Definition:
If deforming force is applied tangentially to an object, then the stress is called tangential stress. It changes the shape of the object.

Elasticity:
Elasticity defines a property of an object that has the ability to regain its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Learn about the deforming force applied on an elastic object and how the stress and strain works on an object. What is a Hooke’s law and how it is applicable for the concept of elasticity.