Poisson’s Ratio (symbolized as ν or μ) is a material property that describes the ratio of lateral or transverse strain (strain in the direction perpendicular to an applied force) to axial or longitudinal strain (strain in the direction of the applied force) in a material when it’s subjected to an external force. It’s important in aircraft design and engineering to understand how materials respond to various types of stress.
The formula for Poisson’s Ratio (ν) is defined as:
- ν (nu) is Poisson’s Ratio, which is dimensionless (no units).
- ε_lateral is the lateral or transverse strain (dimensionless).
- ε_longitudinal is the axial or longitudinal strain (dimensionless).