Fracture Mechanics is a field of study that focuses on understanding how and why materials break or crack. It examines the behavior of cracks in materials under various conditions, helping engineers predict when a material might fail. This knowledge is crucial in designing safer structures and products. The discipline combines principles from materials science, mechanics, and engineering to analyze stress and strain around cracks. By studying factors like crack size and shape, Fracture Mechanics aids in improving material performance and longevity, ensuring that structures like bridges and airplanes can withstand the forces they encounter during use.