Question:

The sensitivity of fracture of brittle solids to surface conditions is termed as the

Show Hint

Brittle fracture strength is controlled by surface flaws, not bulk strength.
Updated On: Jun 29, 2026
  • Hall-Petch effect
  • Joffe effect
  • Bauschinger effect
  • Portevin-Le Chatelier effect
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: In brittle materials, fracture strength is highly sensitive to surface flaws such as scratches, cracks, and micro-defects. This phenomenon is known as the Joffe effect.

Step 1:
Understand brittle fracture behavior.
Brittle solids fail due to crack propagation, and surface defects act as stress concentrators.

Step 2:
Define Joffe effect.
The Joffe effect states that: \[ \text{fracture strength of brittle solids depends strongly on surface condition} \] Even minor surface damage drastically reduces strength.

Step 3:
Evaluate other effects.

• Hall-Petch → grain size strengthening
• Bauschinger → reverse loading plasticity
• PLC effect → serrated yielding Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Joffe effect}} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0