Which of the following stresses is associated with two forces pushing towards each other?

The correct answer is associated with the scenario where two forces are acting in opposition to each other, pushing towards each other. This configuration generates a condition where the material is being squeezed or compacted. This type of stress is commonly referred to as compression.

In the case of compression, materials are subjected to forces that tend to shorten them or reduce their volume. This stress is significant in structural components such as beams and columns, where forces can be applied to compress elements in load-bearing applications.

Understanding the differences between other types of stress is also important. For example, tension involves forces that pull apart material rather than compress it, while shear stress occurs when forces are applied in opposite directions but are not directly aligned, often leading to sliding between layers. Bending stress involves a combination of compression and tension across a material, typically where one side of an object is pushed in and the opposite side is pulled out.

In summary, the identification of compression as the stress associated with two forces pushing towards each other showcases an understanding of how forces interact with materials, specific to structural engineering and repair practices in aircraft metal structures.