Internal forces

Definition

Internal forces are the forces that act within an object or system, causing it to change shape or deform. These forces do not affect the motion of the entire object as a whole.

Related terms

Tension:

Tension is an internal force that occurs when an object is being pulled from opposite ends, causing it to stretch.

Compression:

Compression is an internal force that occurs when an object is being pushed from opposite ends, causing it to compress or shorten.

Shear: Shear is an internal force that occurs when two parts of an object slide past each other in opposite directions, causing deformation.