What is factor of safety?

Problem Statement

What is factor of safety?

Step-by-Step Explanation

Factor of safety compares the strength of a system to the expected load to reduce failure risk.

1. Identify what the question is asking. In Engineering, this usually means naming the known quantities, the unknown quantity, and the concept that connects them.
2. Write the relevant definition, rule, or relationship before substituting numbers or manipulating symbols.
3. Work one step at a time and keep units, signs, and restrictions visible.
4. Check whether the answer makes sense in the original context.

Final Answer

Factor of safety compares the strength of a system to the expected load to reduce failure risk. The reliable strategy is to start from the definition, apply the correct rule carefully, and then interpret the result in plain language.