Changing Shape (AQA GCSE Physics Combined Science): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
5.3.1 Changing Shape
Deformation
Note
Deformation occurs when we apply a force to an object to change its shape. Applying a force to an object can cause it to either:
- stretch - the object increases in length
- compress - the object decreases in length
Note
In general, the greater the force applied, the more deformed an object will become.
However, not all materials behave in the same way. Elastic materials will return to their original shape once the force is removed, whereas inelastic materials will change shape permanently and may even break.
Hooke's law
Note
When you apply a force to a material it can extend. The extension is the amount the length has increased by.