On the standard engineering stress–strain curve for mild steel under tension, what is the nature of the stress at point D (the peak of the curve before necking begins)?

Introduction / Context:
In materials testing for mechanical engineering, the tensile test produces a characteristic stress–strain curve. Recognising key points on this curve—proportional limit, yield points, ultimate tensile stress, and fracture—is essential for safe design and failure prevention.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A standard tensile test on a ductile (mild steel–like) specimen.
• Engineering stress–strain curve is considered (load divided by original area).
• Point D is the highest point on the curve before the final drop to fracture.

Concept / Approach:
The curve starts linear (Hooke’s law), then yields (upper/lower yield), then strain hardening increases stress until a maximum is reached (ultimate tensile stress). After this peak, local necking causes a reduction in load-carrying cross-section and the measured engineering stress drops until fracture.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
The ultimate tensile stress is always the maximum engineering stress recorded in the test; fracture stress is lower for ductile metals due to necking.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Yield point stress: occurs earlier, before strain hardening.Breaking stress: occurs at the end, after necking and load drop.Elastic limit: much earlier in the curve; end of purely elastic behaviour.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing ultimate tensile stress with fracture stress; mixing engineering and true stress where the true stress can still rise after necking.

Final Answer:

Ultimate tensile stress