The Frank–Reed source is a mechanism responsible for the multiplication of dislocations in crystalline materials under stress.
Step 1: Understanding Dislocation Multiplication
- When a material is plastically deformed, existing dislocations move due to applied stress.
- The Frank–Reed source allows the formation of new dislocations from an initial segment pinned at both ends.
- Under continued stress, the pinned segment bows out and eventually forms a dislocation loop.
- This mechanism is crucial in work hardening, where increased dislocation density strengthens the material.
Step 2: Conclusion
Since the Frank–Reed source is directly related to the multiplication of dislocations rather than point, ionic, or interstitial defects, the correct answer is (A) Dislocation multiplier.