How to use this calculator
- Enter the stress (σ) in megapascals.
- Enter the strain (ε) as a decimal ratio.
- Read the Young’s modulus in gigapascals.
What your result means
Young's modulus measures stiffness — how much stress it takes to stretch a material by a given strain. A high modulus (like steel at ~200 GPa) means the material barely deforms; a low one (like rubber) stretches easily.
Stiffness is a property, not a size
Young's modulus is the slope of the straight, elastic part of a stress-strain curve. It belongs to the material itself — steel is about 200 GPa whether it's a paperclip or a bridge girder — so it lets engineers predict deflection before anything is built.
How it works
Young's modulus equals stress divided by strain in the elastic region, where deformation is still reversible. Because strain is dimensionless, the modulus carries the same units as stress — pascals.
Formula
Frequently asked questions
What units is Young’s modulus in?＋
Pascals (Pa), the same as stress. Real materials are stiff, so values are usually quoted in gigapascals (GPa) — steel is around 200 GPa, aluminium around 69 GPa.
Does it only apply in the elastic region?＋
Yes. Young’s modulus describes the linear, reversible part of the stress-strain curve. Beyond the yield point the material deforms permanently and the ratio no longer holds.