Chapter 2 – Linear Elastodynamics

Publisher Summary A review of linear elastodynamics is presented in this chapter. For problems in classical elastodynamics the conservation of energy provides a convenient way of approaching solutions; however—because there are no dissipative processes—it is seldom necessary to introduce the energy conservation equations explicitly into the problem formulation. On the other hand, in fracture problems that are the focus of this chapter, dissipation is inherent in the problem. Typically integral transform methods and Green's function methods are used in obtaining solutions to specific boundary value problems. For propagating cracks, further complication of moving boundary conditions must be addressed. The construction of wavefronts and rays is useful in understanding and interpreting the development of stress fields in elastodynamic problems.