Which of the following is the correct definition of **stress** in a deformed body?
- the change in length per unit original length
- the internal restoring force per unit area
- the external force applied to the body
- the volume change per unit applied force
Show answer and solution
Correct answer: B. the internal restoring force per unit area
Stress $\sigma = F/A$ is the internal restoring force per unit cross-sectional area that the body develops to resist deformation.
Option A defines *strain* (a dimensionless ratio).
**Option C is the applied force itself, not stress.**