Elastic deformation refers to the temporary change in shape or size of a material when a force is applied, and importantly, it returns to its original form once the force is removed. In the context of GCSE Physics, this concept is highlighted when discussing the behaviour of materials like springs or rubber bands under stress.
Elastic deformation occurs as long as the material is below its elastic limit, meaning it has not been stretched or compressed beyond its capacity to return to its initial state.
This principle is commonly illustrated through Hooke's Law, which states that the extension of an elastic object is directly proportional to the force applied, provided the elastic limit is not exceeded.
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