Poisson's Ratio Calculator

How to use this calculator

1. Choose whether to find Poisson's ratio, axial strain, or transverse strain.
2. Enter the two known values; the material should be in its linear‑elastic regime.
3. Read the result; typical metals have ν ≈ 0.3.

Formula

ν = – ε_trans / ε_axial

ε_trans is the strain perpendicular to the applied load and ε_axial is the strain in the load direction. By convention ν is positive for most materials.

Worked example

Example: axial strain 0.001 gives transverse strain –0.0003

With ν = 0.3, ε_trans = –0.3 × 0.001 = –0.0003 (‑0.03 %).

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