Structural mechanics is a branch of engineering that deals with the behavior of solid structures under various loading conditions. It involves the analysis and design of structures such as buildings, bridges, dams, and vehicles to ensure they can safely withstand forces like gravity, wind, seismic activity, and thermal expansion. Structural mechanics also involves studying the deformation and stress distribution within materials to predict failure points and optimize structural performance. This field combines principles of mechanics, materials science, and mathematics to develop efficient and cost-effective structural designs.