What is the Difference Between Elastic Modulus and Young’s Modulus?

The elastic modulus and Young's modulus are often used interchangeably, as they both measure a material's resistance to elastic deformation under stress. However, there are some subtle differences between the two:

Elastic Modulus: This is a general term that refers to the resistance of a material to elastic (recoverable) deformation under load. It is a fundamental property of materials and is essential in engineering and materials science, as it determines a material's ability to support loads and maintain its shape.
Young's Modulus: This is a specific type of elastic modulus that measures the ratio of stress to strain when stress is applied perpendicular to the material's surface. It is the mechanical property that measures the tensile or compressive stiffness of a solid when the force is applied lengthwise. Young's modulus is an indicator of a solid's stiffness.

In summary, while both elastic modulus and Young's modulus measure a material's resistance to elastic deformation, elastic modulus is a broader term that encompasses various types of elastic moduli, including Young's modulus. Young's modulus specifically measures the stiffness of a material when subjected to tensile or compressive stress applied lengthwise.

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What is the Difference Between Elastic Modulus and Young’s Modulus?

Comparative Table: Elastic Modulus vs Young’s Modulus

The difference between Elastic Modulus and Young's Modulus lies in their specific definitions and applications. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Property	Elastic Modulus	Young's Modulus
Definition	Elastic modulus is a measure of an object's or substance's resistance towards deformation elastically upon the application of stress.	Young's modulus, also known as modulus of elasticity, measures the tensile or compressive stiffness of a material, specifically the relationship between stress and strain in the elastic region of the material.
Types	Elastic modulus encompasses three types: Young's modulus, shear modulus, and bulk modulus.	Young's modulus is a specific type of elastic modulus that focuses on the material's stiffness under tension or compression.
Formula	Elastic modulus is calculated as stress divided by strain.	Young's modulus is calculated as longitudinal stress divided by strain.
Units	Elastic modulus is typically measured in pascals (Pa) or newtons per square meter (N/m^2).	Young's modulus is typically measured in pascals (Pa) or newtons per square meter (N/m^2).
Applications	Elastic modulus is a broader term used to describe a material's resistance to deformation, which can include various types of deformation such as tension, compression, or shear.	Young's modulus specifically measures a material's resistance to changes in length when subjected to tension or compression.

In summary, elastic modulus is a general term that measures a material's resistance to deformation, while Young's modulus is a specific type of elastic modulus that measures a material's stiffness under tension or compression.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.