What is the process of yielding or breaking under pressure, often used in materials science?

The process of yielding or breaking under pressure in materials science is best described as deformation. Deformation refers to the change in the shape or size of a material when exposed to an external force or pressure. This can occur in various forms, such as elastic deformation, where the material returns to its original shape once the load is removed, or plastic deformation, where the material undergoes a permanent change in shape.

In materials science, understanding deformation is crucial as it helps engineers and scientists predict how materials will behave under load, which is essential for ensuring safety and performance in construction, manufacturing, and other applications. This process is fundamental in studying the mechanical properties of materials and is key in determining how materials can be utilized in practical applications.

Other terms mentioned in the options, such as crazing, deterioration, and deflation, relate to different phenomena and are not primarily focused on the yielding or breaking of materials under pressure. Crazing involves the formation of fine cracks within a material due to stress, while deterioration refers to the gradual decline in material quality over time, often due to environmental factors. Deflation typically relates to a decrease in pressure or volume in gases, rather than a mechanical property of solid materials.