Structural Mechanics Fundamentals

This lecture introduces the basics of structural mechanics, focusing on predicting how objects respond to load and analyzing mechanical systems. It covers materials, geometries, and classes of engineering materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. The lecture also explains the vocabulary of basic mechanics, including stiffness, strength, and toughness, and delves into concepts like plastic strain, ductility, and brittleness. Additionally, it discusses the mechanics of materials, stress, strain, and the behavior of different materials under various loading conditions.