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Describe, with the aid of a diagram, the difference between a compressive force and a tensile force. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question k - 2009
Question k
Describe, with the aid of a diagram, the difference between a compressive force and a tensile force.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe, with the aid of a diagram, the difference between a compressive force and a tensile force. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question k - 2009
Step 1
Compressive Force
Answer
A compressive force occurs when an object is subjected to a push. In this scenario, if one end of a bar is pushed inward, the bar experiences a resultant force that compresses it. This can be illustrated as follows:
Push -------> [Compression] <------- Push
The arrows represent the direction of the pushing force that results in compression. In a state of compression, the internal molecules of the material are being brought closer together, leading to potential deformation or shortening of the material.
Step 2
Tensile Force
Answer
Conversely, a tensile force is experienced when a bar is subjected to a pull. If one end of the bar is pulled outward, the bar is said to be in tension. This can be illustrated as follows:
Pull <------- [Tension] -------> Pull
The arrows reflect the direction of the pulling forces. In a state of tension, the internal molecules of the material are being pulled apart, which can lead to elongation or stretching of the material.
Step 3
Diagram
Answer
The diagram accompanying this explanation illustrates the two forces:
Compression:
Push -------> [Compression] <------- Push
Tension:
Pull <------- [Tension] -------> Pull
This visual representation facilitates a clearer understanding of how compressive forces compress materials while tensile forces stretch them.