The ANSYS program's element library includes two basic types of area and volume elements: linear (with or without extra shapes), and quadratic. These basic element types are represented schematically in Figure 2.1. Let's examine some of the considerations involved in choosing between these two basic element types:
Basic area and volume types available in the ANSYS program
(a) Linear isoparametric
(b) Linear isoparametric with extra shapes
(c) Quadratic
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