deformation

Everyday

1. Deformation is a change in the shape of something, for example when it is bent, squashed or stretched. tree →
2. A deformation is a part of something that has become the wrong shape. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons on forces, deformation happens when a force pushes or pulls: a spring stretches, a ball squashes, plasticine bends. Elastic deformation goes back to its shape (a spring); plastic deformation stays changed (bent metal). In geography, rocks deform in mountains and earthquakes.

Examples

• Squeezing a sponge causes deformation. tree →
• The car's bumper showed deformation after the crash. tree →
• A spring returns to its shape after deformation. tree →
• The heat caused deformation of the plastic bottle. tree →
• Great forces cause the deformation of rock layers into folds. tree →
• We measured the deformation of the elastic band with different weights. tree →

Note

Countable and uncountable. Verb: deform. Do not confuse with deformity (a body part shaped unusually).