ABSTRACT
A study of the basic mechanical properties of materials must begin with an understanding of the structure of solid materials. In this context structures refer to the atomistic and crystalline patterns of which the solid material is composed. The smallest particles that must be considered in the above context are atoms. The manner in which atoms are arranged in a solid material determines its crystal structure. The crystal structure and the type of interatomic bonding forces determine the strength and ductility of the material. Covalent bonds are those in which the atoms reach a stable configuration by sharing the valence electrons. Whereas the electrical properties of a material depend upon the internal structure of the atoms, the mechanical properties of a material depend upon the type of structure that groups of atoms form. A molecule is a group of atoms that are held together by strong ionic or covalent bonds.
