What is the term for the distance a structural element deforms when load is applied?

The term for the distance a structural element deforms when load is applied is deflection. Deflection specifically refers to the displacement of a structural element – such as a beam or a column – from its original position as a result of applied forces or moments. Understanding deflection is critical in structural engineering because it affects the performance and safety of structures. Properly calculating and accommodating deflection ensures that structures can withstand loads without experiencing excessive movement, which can lead to failure or discomfort for occupants.

In contrast, compression refers to a type of loading that tends to shorten or compress a material, tension involves pulling forces that stretch a material, and shear refers to forces that cause parts of a material to slide past one another. While these terms describe different phenomena related to stress and strain, they do not specifically address the resultant displacement of a structural element, which is what deflection describes.