How to Measure and convert Stress (Mechanics)

Ask questions about projects relating to: aerodynamics or hydrodynamics, astronomy, chemistry, electricity, electronics, physics, or engineering

Moderators: kgudger, bfinio, MadelineB, Moderators

Locked
alondra011
Posts: 10
Joined: Wed Oct 24, 2012 2:37 pm
Occupation: Student
Project Question: How does chemical lighting hair treatments affect the elasticity of hair?
Project Due Date: 11/20/12
Project Status: I am just starting

How to Measure and convert Stress (Mechanics)

Post by alondra011 »

The equation to find stress is force/area . Stress can be measured as Pascals. I don't know if i should do any convertions. From mm to meters. From Grams to kilograms?
theborg
Former Expert
Posts: 360
Joined: Mon Oct 03, 2011 12:26 pm
Occupation: Space Test Analyst
Project Question: "To explain all nature is too difficult a task for any one man. 'Tis much better to do a little with certainty and leave the rest for others that come after you, than to explain all things by conjecture without making sure of anything." - Sir Isaac Newton
Project Due Date: N/A
Project Status: Not applicable

Re: How to Measure and convert Stress (Mechanics)

Post by theborg »

Alondra011,

Thank you for your question. Unit agreement is very important when making calculations. A pascal (Pa) is the SI unit for pressure or stress. So force, measured in newtons (N), would be kilogram meters per second per second (kg*m/s^2) and area would be in square meters (m^2). So a pascal would be (kg/(m*s^2)).

So, the short answer is yes...you need to ensure you convert any measurements to these units.
Hope this helps.

theborg
----------
Science Buddies science fair guide:
http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_guide_index.shtml

Science Buddies project ideas:
http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_ideas.shtml
Locked

Return to “Grades 9-12: Physical Science”