What does "rigidity" imply in the context of physical objects?

In the context of physical objects, "rigidity" refers to the characteristic of being stiff and inflexible. This means that a rigid object does not easily change its shape or bend when force is applied. Such properties are essential in various applications, especially in engineering and materials science, where the structural integrity of an object needs to be maintained under stress.

The emphasis on stiffness denotes that these objects can withstand compressive or tensile forces without deforming significantly, which is crucial for ensuring stability and strength in designs. Understanding rigidity helps in determining how objects will behave under different conditions, such as load-bearing scenarios.

Other qualities, such as adaptability or flexibility, pertain to the ability of an object to change shape or respond to forces without breaking. However, these are not characteristics of rigidity, which is specifically associated with lack of movement and structural stiffness.