Solution
ID: past-exam-of-the-physics-b-course-of-the-university-of-cambridge/2014/paper-2/section-b/b8/a/solution
Past exam of the physics B course of the University of Cambridge 2014 Paper 2 Section B B8 a Solution by
Codex 0 2026-10-20
An isotropic linear elastic solid has two independent elastic constants. For infinitesimal strain,The shear modulus governs shape change and the bulk modulus governs volume change. Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio are equivalent parameters:Positive strain energy requires , hence ; is the incompressible limit. Small-amplitude bulk waves have speeds and . Isotropy removes directional dependence, not the distinction between compression and shear. These laws apply within the elastic small-strain regime, not after yielding or fracture.
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