External circular crack under normal load: A complete solution

For the first time, a complete solution in terms of elementary functions is given to the problem of a transversely isotropic elastic space weakened by an external circular crack and subjected to arbitrary normal loading applied symmetrically to both crack faces. A complete field of displacements and stresses due to a concentrated loading is given for both transversely isotropic and purely isotropic cases. The method of solution is based on the results published earlier by the first author.