SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/eng-ultimate-tensile-strength

What is ultimate tensile strength on an engineering stress-strain curve?

It is the maximum tensile stress the specimen reaches before the curve falls toward fracture.

Start playing free

  1. The stress where yielding begins
  2. The stress at the moment of fracture
  3. The maximum resistance reached in tension ✔

Why: Ultimate tensile strength is the peak engineering stress in a tensile test. It is different from yield strength, which marks the start of specified permanent deformation.

Huh, didn't know that: A ductile specimen can begin localized narrowing, called necking, near its ultimate tensile strength.

The dad joke
The tensile specimen peaked in its final exam.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: The maximum resistance reached in tension. Ultimate tensile strength is the peak engineering stress in a tensile test. It is different from yield strength, which marks the start of specified permanent deformation.

  1. DOE Fundamentals Handbook: Material Science www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2026-04/DOE-HDBK-1017-93_VOL1.pdf
    Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) is the maximum resistance to fracture.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

EngineeringWhat does a material's yield strength mark?EngineeringAbout what is the static friction coefficient for rubber on dry concrete?EngineeringWhat happens when a metal part is loaded past its elastic limit and then unloaded?

That's stuff everyone should know.