The various terms used in FEM are explained below:

• Finite element-Small elements used for subdividing the given domain tobe analysed are called finite elements. The elements may be 1D, 2D or 3D elements depend in on the type of structure.
• Nodes and nodal points- The intersection of the different sides of elements are called nodes. Nodes are of two types - external nodes and internal nodes.

O External nodes - The nodal POINT connecting adjacent elements.
O Internal nodes- The EXTRA nodes used to increase the accuracy of solution.

• Nodal lines - The interface between elements are called nodal lines.
• Continuum- The domain in which matter exists at every point is called a continuum. It can be assumed as having infinite number of connected PARTICLES.
• Primary unknowns- The main unknowns involved in the formulation of the element properties are known as primary unknowns.
• Secondary unknowns- These unknowns are derived from primary unknowns are known as secondary unknowns. In displacement formulations, displacements are treated as primary unknowns and stress, strain, moments and shear force are treated as secondary unknowns.

The various terms used in FEM are explained below:

O External nodes - The nodal point connecting adjacent elements.
O Internal nodes- The extra nodes used to increase the accuracy of solution.