A tensile test is a mechanical test used to determine the strength and ductility of materials, such as metals and polymers. During the test, a sample is pulled apart until it breaks, measuring the force applied and the resulting elongation. This data helps engineers understand how materials will behave under tension. The results of a tensile test provide key information, including the ultimate tensile strength (the maximum stress a material can withstand), yield strength (the stress at which a material begins to deform permanently), and elongation (the amount of stretching before failure). These properties are crucial for material selection in various applications, ensuring safety and performance.