Bulk modulus is defined as:a)Pressure / volume strainb)Stress / strain...
Bulk modulus is defined as:
- Pressure divided by volume strain. So (a) is the right option.
Bulk modulus is defined as:a)Pressure / volume strainb)Stress / strain...
Understanding Bulk Modulus
The bulk modulus is a fundamental concept in mechanical engineering and material science, representing how a material responds to uniform pressure changes.
Definition
- The bulk modulus (K) is defined as the ratio of the change in pressure to the resulting decrease in volume. Mathematically, it can be expressed as:
K = - (ΔP / (ΔV/V))
Where:
- ΔP = change in pressure
- ΔV = change in volume
- V = original volume
Correct Answer Explanation: Option A
- Option A: Pressure / Volume Strain
- This option accurately describes the bulk modulus. It quantifies how much pressure is applied to a material and how that pressure leads to a change in volume (volume strain).
- A higher bulk modulus indicates that the material is less compressible, meaning it requires a higher pressure to achieve a given volume change.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
- Option B: Stress / Strain in Length
- This refers to Young's modulus, which is concerned with linear deformation rather than volumetric changes.
- Option C: Volume Strain / Pressure
- This is an incorrect formulation. It incorrectly implies that volume strain can be used directly to define bulk modulus without considering the pressure applied.
- Option D: Lateral Strain / Longitudinal Strain
- This describes Poisson's ratio, which relates to how materials deform in directions perpendicular to the applied load, not volume changes.
Conclusion
- In summary, the bulk modulus is crucial for understanding material behavior under pressure. Option A is correct because it effectively captures the relationship between pressure and volume change, making it essential for engineers in designing and analyzing materials under various loading conditions.