Linear static analysis assumes that the relationship between loads and the induced response is:

The concept of linear static analysis is rooted in the fundamental principle that the relationship between the loads applied to a structure and the resulting response (such as displacement, stresses, and strains) is proportional. This proportionality means that if the load is doubled, the response will also double, illustrating a direct linear relationship.

In engineering and structural analysis, assuming a linear relationship simplifies the calculations because it allows for the use of superposition, where responses from multiple loads can be summed to find the total effect. This is essential for analyzing structures under various loading conditions while maintaining accuracy within the limits of the linearity assumption.

The nature of this assumption plays a crucial role in fields such as finite element analysis and system design, where understanding how structures behave under load is essential for safety and performance. Thus, the correct answer highlights the core principle that governs linear static analysis, reinforcing the idea that the response scales directly with applied loads within a specific range.