Tension

Tension (physics) - may be described as a pulling force transmitted axially, or an action-reaction pair of forces acting at each end of a structure. Often this may be visualized as a "stretching" or "lengthening" force resulting in "tautness". The rope in a game of tug-of-war is a good example.
  • Example: Muscular tension is the result of contractile proteins attempting to pull a muscle to a shorter length while being resisted by joints, connective tissue and external loads.

Related Terms

  • Compression
  • Shear force
  • Stress
  • Strain
  • Elasticity

Synonyms

  • Tautness
  • Stretching force
  • Pulling force
  • Axial force
  • Tension