The '''Appliedapplied Elementelement Methodmethod''' ('''AEM)''') is a numerical analysis used in predicting the [[Linear continuum|continuum]] and [[Discrete mathematics|discrete]] behavior of structures. The modeling method in AEM adopts the concept of discrete cracking allowing it to automatically track [[Structural failure|structural collapse]] behavior passing through all stages of loading: elastic, [[Crack propagation|crack initiation and propagation]] in tension-weak materials, reinforcement [[Yield (engineering)|yield]], element separation, element contact and [[collision]], as well as collision with the ground and adjacent structures.