The load on a spring per unit deflection, is called A. Stiffness B. Proof resilience C. Proof stress D. Proof load

Stiffness
Proof resilience
Proof stress
Proof load

The correct answer is A. Stiffness.

Stiffness is a measure of how difficult it is to deform an object. It is calculated by dividing the force applied to an object by the resulting deformation. In the case of a spring, the stiffness is the force required to stretch or compress the spring by a unit distance.

Proof resilience is the ability of a material to withstand repeated deformation without permanent damage. Proof stress is the maximum stress that a material can withstand without permanent deformation. Proof load is the load that causes a material to reach its proof stress.

Stiffness is important in many engineering applications, such as designing bridges and buildings. A bridge that is too flexible will sway in the wind, making it uncomfortable for people to cross. A building that is too flexible may collapse in an earthquake. By choosing materials with the right stiffness, engineers can design structures that are strong and stable.