section modulus

section modulus

[′sek·shən ′mäj·ə·ləs] (mechanics) The ratio of the moment of inertia of the cross section of a beam undergoing flexure to the greatest distance of an element of the beam from the neutral axis.

section modulus

The moment of inertia of the area of the cross section of a structural member divided by the distance from the center of gravity to the farthest point of the section; a measure of the flexural strength of the beam.