Which term describes the application of balanced inward forces to a material or structure?

• A. Capacitance
• B. Wetting
• C. Compression
• D. Tinning

Answer: (C)

Compression is the term used for applying balanced inward forces to a material or structure. When forces push from opposite directions toward the center with equal magnitude, the material is squeezed and carries compressive stress along the loading direction, often causing a slight shortening as it resists deformation. This idea is fundamental in mechanical design, with components like columns and pistons routinely experiencing compression. The other terms describe different concepts: capacitance is an electrical property related to charge storage; wetting concerns how a liquid interacts with and spreads on a surface; tinning is a surface-finishing process of coating metal with tin.