Final answer:
The assertion that a compression force generates greater stress than an equivalent tension force is false. Stress depends on both the force applied and the area over which it is distributed, not on whether the force is compressive or tensile.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a compression force generates a greater stress than an equivalent tension force is false. Stress is defined as the force per unit area (F/A) that causes deformation of an object. Whether the force is a compressive or tensile force, the amount of stress generated will depend on the magnitude of the force and the area over which it is applied. If equivalent forces are applied, then the stress generated will be the same regardless of whether it's compressive or tensile.
For example, imagine a rod that's being either pulled apart (tension) or pushed together (compression). In both scenarios, if the force magnitude and the cross-sectional area of the rod remain the same, the stress on the rod will be identical in magnitude. However, the type of deformation will differ; tension tends to elongate the rod, while compression tends to shorten it.