For a number of cross-sections we cannot find stress functions. However, we can resort to an analogy introduced by Prandtl(1903) Consider a membrane under pressure p, Membrane\. structure whose thickness is small compared to surface
Now consider the case of compressive loads and the instability they can cause. Consider only static instabilities (static loading as opposed to dynamic loading [ e.g., flutter) From Unified, defined instability via a system becomes unstable when a negative stiffness overcomes
Thus far have considered only static response. However, things also move, this includes structures Can actually identify three \categories\ of response A.(Quasi)-Static [quasi because the load must first be applied