Here's a breakdown:

* Stress: Stress is a measure of force applied over an area. It's how much force is distributed over the rock's surface.

* Types of Stress: There are three main types of stress that can deform rocks:

* Compressional Stress: This occurs when forces push towards each other, squeezing the rock. It can cause folding, shortening, or thickening.

* Tensional Stress: This occurs when forces pull away from each other, stretching the rock. It can cause thinning, fracturing, or faulting.

* Shear Stress: This occurs when forces slide past each other in opposite directions. It can cause rocks to shift, break, or deform.

How Stress Changes Rock Shape:

* Elastic Deformation: When stress is applied to a rock, it may deform elastically, meaning it will return to its original shape when the stress is removed. Think of a rubber band.

* Plastic Deformation: If the stress is strong enough, the rock may undergo plastic deformation, meaning it will permanently change shape. This is like bending a metal spoon.

* Fracturing: When stress exceeds the rock's strength, it can fracture (break). This is what happens during earthquakes.

Factors Influencing Rock Deformation:

* Rock Type: Different rocks have different strengths and abilities to deform.

* Temperature: Hot rocks are more likely to deform plastically than cold rocks.

* Pressure: High pressure can make rocks more resistant to deformation.

Let me know if you'd like to learn more about a specific type of stress or rock deformation!