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GCSE Physics · key term
A change in an object's shape or size caused by forces.
Used by AQA, Edexcel and OCR
Paper 2
Revise: Elastic and Inelastic DeformationWhen forces change an object's shape or size, the change is called deformation. Stretching makes it longer, compression makes it shorter, and bending changes its shape along its length.
Specification 15.1 · Paper 2
A change in an object's shape caused by forces, such as stretching, compression or bending.
Revise: Forces for Stretching/BendingA force can change an object's motion, but forces acting on different parts of an object can also change its shape. This change of shape is called deformation.
Specification P2.3a, P2.3b · Paper 1 (Foundation), Paper 3 (Higher)
A change in an object's shape or dimensions caused by forces.
Revise: Stretching and compressingStretching, compressing and bending are three forms of deformation.
Paper 1, Paper 2
Revise: Deformation and the Particle ModelIf the solid returns to its original length and shape after the forces are removed, its deformation was elastic. A gently stretched steel spring is an example. If the stretching forces are too large, particles can shift into a changed arrangement that does not fully reverse.
To distinguish elastic from inelastic deformation, say what happens after the stretching forces are removed.
When explaining deformation, identify at least two forces and state where they act and in which directions; do not merely say that a force is applied.
When comparing elastic and plastic deformation, always describe what happens after the stretching force is removed.
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