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Physics - Deformation forces

Deformation forces

When objects interact with each other (e.g. in a collision) they are
_deformed _to some extent. They can be compressed, stretched or twisted.
When they are stretched or compressed, their length will change by an
amount, _x._ Generally, this is as a result of the atoms/molecules of the
substance coming closer together or moving further apart. Force is required
for this deformation to occur. Usually, _x_ increases as the force
increases.

For example a spring being compressed:

_F_ is the force required to produce a change in length of _x._ It is
also the force that the deformed object imparts on the object producing the
deformation. In the case above, the spring pushes out against the
compressing force.

A force versus change-in-length graph shows how the two quantities vary.

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