Euler's formula states that the buckling load for a column of length , both ends hinged and whose least moment of inertia and modulus of elasticity of the material of the column are and respectively, is given by the relation

The field of strength of materials typically refers to various methods of calculating the stresses and strains in structural members, such as beams, columns, and shafts.

A material's strength in a given application depends on many factors, including its resistance to deformation and cracking, and it often depends on the shape of the member being designed.