Final answer:
When small stress is applied to metal, it typically shows elastic behavior and returns to its original shape after the stress is removed. If the stress exceeds the elastic limit, the metal may experience plastic deformation. Beyond the fracture point, the metal will break.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a small stress is applied to a metal, it typically exhibits elastic behavior, meaning it will return to its original shape once the stress is removed. This is because the stress is within the metal's elastic limit, the range where deformation is directly proportional to the applied force, as described by Hooke's law. As the stress increases and passes beyond this limit, the metal may undergo plastic deformation, resulting in permanent changes in shape. The exact response of the metal to stress will depend on various factors including its material properties and the amount of stress applied.
Point E on a typical stress-strain curve represents the elasticity limit of a metal. Beyond this point, the metal can start to deform plastically, which means it will not return to its original shape after the load is removed. The region between the linearity and elasticity limits is typically nonlinear, and if the metal is stressed beyond its fracture point, it will break.