What is Bending?
{{Continuum mechanics|cTopic=[[Solid mechanics]]}} [[File:Bending.svg|thumb|320x320px|1) A simple beam 2) A simple beam with a uniform load ]] ''This article is about the structural behavior. For other meanings see [[Bending (disambiguation)]].'' In [[engineering]] and [[mechanics]], '''bending''' (also known as '''flexure''') characterizes the behavior of a structural [[wikt:element|element]] subjected to a lateral [[load]] (i.e. at right angles to its length). A structural element subjected to bending is known as a [[Beam (structure)|beam]]. Stiffness is its ability to resist bending. A [[closet]] rod sagging under the weight of clothes is an example of a beam experiencing bending. ==Related pages== * [[Engineering]] * [[Mechanics]] * [[Deflection]] * [[Shear strength]] * [[Shear stress]] * [[Mechanical Strain]] [[Category:Engineering]] [[Category:Mechanics]]