Which type of load is characterized by forces applied perpendicular to the surface?

The characterization of loads is crucial in understanding how materials behave under different forces. A shear load is defined by forces that are applied parallel to the surface of a material, causing one part of the material to slide past another. Essentially, shear forces act in opposite directions on the material's cross-section, resulting in a deformation that is distinct from tensile or compressive forces.

When discussing perpendicular forces, however, this typically associates with bending moments or compressive forces rather than purely shear forces. In the context of the question, if it refers to loads applied perpendicular to the surface of a structure, the shear load is typically misunderstood, and the focus should be on the nature of those loads.

In a broader context, bending loads involve forces that cause a material to bend due to a combination of tension and compression on opposite sides of the material. Compressive loads apply a force that reduces the length of the material, while tensile loads increase it. Understanding the specific nature of these loads helps in designing structures to withstand various forces effectively.