A Level Physics Practice Exam

How is stress defined in physics?

1. F / A

2. A / F

3. F * A

4. F + A

The correct answer is: F / A

Stress in physics is defined as the force applied per unit area over which that force is distributed. This relationship is expressed mathematically as the ratio of force (F) to area (A). When you apply a force to an object, that force acts on a specific area of the material, and stress quantifies how concentrated that force is. Therefore, the correct definition of stress in this context is indeed the force divided by the area, which aligns with the answer provided. The other choices do not represent a definition of stress in a meaningful way consistent with physical principles. For instance, area divided by force, force times area, and force added to area do not describe the relationship that characterizes how materials respond to applied forces. Consequently, only the ratio of force to area accurately reflects the concept of stress in physics.