MODULUS, in mathematics, a constant re ferring to properties of matter in certain equa- ' tions. As stress is proportional to strain with in the elastic limits, some constant quantity may be introduced making this proportionality into an equality. In dealing with strength of mate rials, such a constant is called a modulus. Thus in Hooke's law, which says that extension, as of a bar, is proportional to the extending force, the constant which converts this proportionality into an equality is called the modulus of elas ticity, or Young's modulus, and is denoted by E. Where the elastic limits are not exceeded, the transverse strain — i.e., the contraction per unit of transverse dimension — is from one-third to one-fourth the longitudinal strain. The symbol denoting the modulus of elasticity of bulk is K. It denotes the lessening of bulk per unit cube, usually per cubic inch, under hydrostatic stress.
See ELASTICITY.
MOE, md, Jorgen Ingebretsen, Norwegian folklorist and poet: b. Ringerike, 22 April 1815; d. Christiansund, 27 April 1882. He is most noted for collecting, in collaboration with his companion Asbjornsen, Norwegian sagas and folklore published under the titles (Norske (1842-44; enlarged ed., 1882), in an English version by Dasent (1859) •, tSamling of Sange, Folkeviser og (1840; enlarged ed., 1869, with melodies by Lindeman). His Bronden og (1851) containing juvenile stories and ser mons are greatly admired, based, as they are, on folk poems. Skrifter) (Chris tiania 1877) is a collection of his works except ing the folk stories. Consult Halvorsen, J. B., 'Norsk Forfatter-Lexikon) (Vol. IV, Chris tiania 1896).