Flexural strength is a measure of a material's ability to resist deformation under load. It is defined as the maximum stress experienced by a material when it is bent. This property is crucial in engineering and construction, as it helps determine how well materials like concrete, wood, and metals can withstand forces without breaking. In practical applications, flexural strength is often tested using a beam subjected to a load at its center. The results help engineers select appropriate materials for structures such as bridges and buildings, ensuring they can support expected loads without failure. Understanding flexural strength is essential for safe and effective design.