Which of the following correctly describes tensile forces?

Tensile forces are characterized by their ability to pull objects apart. When a material experiences tensile forces, it is subjected to tension, causing elongation and stretching. This is a critical concept in structural engineering, particularly with materials like steel and reinforced concrete, which need to resist these forces effectively to ensure structural integrity. Understanding tensile forces helps engineers make decisions about material selection and structural design, ensuring that structures can withstand the forces they encounter during their service life. In contrast, other types of forces, such as compressive forces that push objects together or shear forces that involve sliding, operate differently and are relevant in their contexts but do not define tensile forces.