Subject: How does the deflection of a cantilever [dowel] vary with mass/length etc..

We know that if you apply moments theories etc... we can work out the 
deflection will change, but how do you relate it to the atomic structure 
of the wood - at first is it harder to deflect the wood as the atoms are 
cold and therefore have less energy and the bonds move with more 
difficulty? Also what do you measure with deflection, as it is curved.. 
the vertical distance or the curved distance? Angle? Thank you!

Re: How does the deflection of a cantilever [dowel] vary with mass/length etc..