The most energetically favorable propagation angle as a function of initial crack-inclination angle 𝛽𝛽 for different values of � 𝜎𝜎 = 𝜎𝜎 𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦 /𝑃𝑃 . The black curve represents the case where the only stress in the system is 𝑃𝑃 , (i.e., � 𝜎𝜎 = 0), such that 𝜃𝜃 = 𝛽𝛽. Increasingly positive � 𝜎𝜎 values represent increasing compressive loadings, which then increase the value of 𝜃𝜃 relative to that for � 𝜎𝜎 = 0, causing deflection. In the limit where 𝜃𝜃 = 90°, the metal dendrite cannot reach the counter electrode regardless of the lateral dimensions of the electrolyte.