Question

In a stress tensor, each stress component in it is represented by__________

(a) magnitude only

(b) direction only

(c) both magnitude and direction

(d) opposite direction

This question was posed to me in exam.

Question is taken from Elasticity in division Elements of Elasticity of Geotechnical Engineering I

Answer 1

Right option is (c) both magnitude and direction

Explanation: In a stress tensor, each stress component in it is represented by both magnitude and direction. For example, σxx signifies the normal stress acting on the face of element perpendicular to x-axis.