What property of steel makes it equally strong in both compression and tension?

The property of steel that allows it to be equally strong in both compression and tension is its strength. Steel possesses a high yield strength and ultimate tensile strength, which means it can withstand significant loads and forces in both pulling (tension) and pushing (compression) scenarios without failing. This characteristic is critical in structural applications since it ensures that steel members can handle forces applied in various directions without compromising structural integrity.

Ductility, while important, specifically refers to the ability of steel to deform under tensile stress. This property contributes to its capacity to absorb energy and resist fracturing, but it doesn't directly address the performance in both tension and compression. Elasticity relates to the material's ability to return to its original shape after deformation but doesn’t define its strength in the face of applied loads. Flexibility concerns the ability to bend without breaking, which is not specifically related to strength in both states. Therefore, the notion of strength accurately encapsulates why steel maintains equal resistance to compression and tension.