Mechanics of Solids

There is no unique definition for ‘mechanics’. Many regard it as an elementary branch of physics dealing with the motion and equilibrium of rigid bodies (the so-called classical dynamics) that forms the basis of many engineering disciplines. But, the term is also included in some highly specialised subjects, e.g., fluid mechanics, statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics. In this book, mechanics of solids is used to describe the macrobehaviour of superplastics. Hence, in this book unless otherwise stated ‘mechanics’ stands for ‘mechanics of solids’.