Breaking strength is a term commonly used in engineering, construction, and manufacturing industries. It refers to the amount of force or load that a material or structure can withstand before it breaks or fails. Understanding the definition and meaning of breaking strength is essential in ensuring the safety and reliability of products and structures.
Definitions
Breaking strength is defined as the maximum stress or load that a material can withstand before it fails. It is also known as ultimate strength or tensile strength. The breaking strength of a material is usually expressed in units of force per unit area, such as pounds per square inch (psi) or Newtons per square meter (N/m²).
Origin
The term breaking strength has its roots in the field of mechanics and engineering. It originated from the study of the behavior of materials under stress and the determination of their strength and durability. The concept of breaking strength has been developed and refined over the years through research and experimentation.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Breaking strength is defined similarly in various dictionaries. According to Merriam-Webster, it is the maximum resistance of a material to rupture under tension or shear stress. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as the maximum stress that a material can withstand before breaking. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as the amount of force that is needed to break a material.
Associations
Breaking strength is associated with the quality and durability of materials and structures. It is also related to safety and reliability, as products and structures must be able to withstand the stresses and loads they are designed for without failing or breaking.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of breaking strength include ultimate strength, tensile strength, maximum strength, and load capacity.
Antonyms
Antonyms of breaking strength include weakness, fragility, and vulnerability.
The same root words
Breaking strength shares the same root words with other terms related to strength and durability, such as flexural strength, compressive strength, and shear strength. These terms refer to the strength of materials under different types of stress.
Example Sentences
- The breaking strength of the steel cable was tested before it was used to lift heavy loads.
- The concrete pillars were designed with a breaking strength of 10,000 psi to ensure their stability.
- The manufacturer guarantees that their product has a breaking strength of 500 pounds.
- The engineer calculated the breaking strength of the bridge to ensure it could withstand the weight of heavy vehicles.
- The rope’s breaking strength was exceeded, causing it to snap and fall to the ground.