Step 1: Understanding ductile fracture.
Ductile fracture is characterized by significant plastic deformation before failure. It usually involves the formation and growth of microvoids.
Step 2: Role of shear stress.
In ductile materials, failure typically occurs along planes of maximum shear stress. This leads to cup-and-cone type fracture surfaces.
Step 3: Analysis of other options.
Direct, compressive, and bending stresses may contribute to loading, but the actual fracture in ductile materials is governed by shear stress.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, ductile fracture occurs primarily due to shear stress.