Elasticity is a property of metal which allows the returns to its original shape when a deformation force is removed. Even if a steel plate is bent with your fingers it returns to the original shape when the force is removed from the plate without leaving any deformation. This returnable deformation is called an elastic deformation and this characteristic of metals is known as “elasticity”.

If more pressure is applied beyond the point of elasticity, the deformation remains even after the pressure is removed and the metal does not return to its original shape. This occurs when the force exceeds the metal’s elastic limit. The harder the steel, the greater the elasticity. Therefore, as the steel is hardened, elasticity is increased.