What is the definition of bending in structural terms?

Bending in structural terms refers to the response of a structural element when it is subjected to forces that cause it to curve or deform. This deformation typically results from a combination of different forces acting simultaneously on the structure, primarily tension and compression, alongside shear forces.

When a structural element, such as a beam, experiences bending, the top of the beam tends to undergo compression while the bottom experiences tension. Concurrently, there are shear forces that act perpendicular to the axis of the beam. The proper interpretation of bending must recognize that it is the interplay of these three fundamental stress types—tension, compression, and shear—that ultimately governs the behavior of materials under bending loads.

Thus, the inclusion of tension, compression, and shear forces as critical components in the definition of bending accurately captures the complex mechanical response of structural elements to loading, making it essential for understanding how structures can safely sustain loads without failure.