Materials and objects can be manipulated to resist and work with forces and stresses

Force	Definition	Examples
Tension	Force that pulls materials apart Stretches the object along its length	Steel cables in suspension bridges Rubber bands being stretched
Compression	Force that squeezes materials together Reduces length or volume	Concrete columns in buildings Springs in car suspensions
Bending	Force that deforms material into a curve Combination of tension and compression	Bookshelves under load Beams in bridges
Torsion	Twisting force causing rotation Creates shear stress within the material	Drive shafts in vehicles Turning a screwdriver
Shear	Forces act in opposite directions, parallel to surface Causes material to slide along a plane	Scissors cutting paper Bolts in machinery under load