Materials (EdExcel)

What are materials?

Substances used to make things.

Why is material selection important in design?

It affects functionality, aesthetics, manufacturing, cost, and sustainability.

What characteristic makes metals strong and durable?

Resistance to wear and tear.

What are good conductors of heat and electricity?

Metals.

What does it mean for metals to be malleable and ductile?

They can be shaped (malleable) and drawn into wires (ductile).

How can ferrous metals be identified?

They contain iron and are usually magnetic.

What is a common use for mild steel?

Car bodies, construction girders, machine parts.

What tool steels are known for?

High hardness and brittleness.

What is cast iron typically used for?

Engine blocks and cookware.

What distinguishes non-ferrous metals from ferrous metals?

They do not contain iron and are generally more resistant to corrosion.

What are the properties of aluminum?

Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.

What applications do copper alloys serve?

Electrical wiring and plumbing.

What is brass used for?

Musical instruments and decorative items.

What is the main property of polymers or plastics?

They are lightweight and can be molded into complex shapes.

What are thermoplastics?

Plastics that can be repeatedly softened and hardened by heating and cooling.

What are some properties of acrylic?

Hard, stiff, brittle, and have good optical clarity.

What is PVC commonly used for?

Pipes and window frames.

How are thermosetting polymers different from thermoplastics?

They become permanently hard and rigid upon curing.

What are the characteristics of wood as a material?

Renewable resource, aesthetic appeal, strength, and biodegradability.

What type of wood is typically more durable, hardwoods or softwoods?

Hardwoods.

What are manufactured boards?

Engineered wood products made from wood strands, particles, or fibers.

What is the enduring property of textiles?

Flexible and porous.

What are synthetic fibers made from?

Chemical processes or petrochemicals.

What characteristic of polyester makes it a popular choice?

Its durability and crease resistance.

What is a common use for corrugated cardboard?

Shipping boxes and protective packaging.

What is density?

Mass per unit volume of a material.

Why is strength important in material properties?

It determines how well a material can withstand forces without breaking.

What does toughness refer to in materials?

The ability to absorb energy and withstand sudden impacts.

What is the significance of thermal conductivity?

It measures how well a material conducts heat.

How is aesthetic appeal defined in materials?

It involves the visual qualities like texture, color, and finish.

What is machinability?

How easily a material can be cut, shaped, or machined.

What is a life cycle assessment (LCA)?

A method to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product throughout its life cycle.

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

Renewable resources replenish naturally; non-renewable resources are finite and take a long time to form.

What are biodegradable materials?

Materials that can be broken down into natural components by microorganisms.

What is the main property of smart materials?

They change properties in response to external stimuli.

What is fiberglass made of?

Glass fibers embedded in a polyester resin matrix.

What does Kevlar provide in terms of material properties?

High tensile strength and impact resistance.

What are the uses of thermochromic materials?

Used in color-changing items to indicate temperature.

Why is ethical sourcing important in materials selection?

To ensure fair wages, working conditions, and minimal negative social impact.

What is the benefit of upcycling?

Transforming waste materials into new products of higher value.

What type of wood is known for being aromatically resistant to rot and insects?

Cedar.

What is one example of a use for melamine formaldehyde?

Laminates for worktops.

In what application is stainless steel commonly used?

Kitchen sinks and medical instruments.

What is the primary concern regarding the environmental impact of material production?

Energy consumption and waste generation.

What is elasticity in material properties?

The ability to return to its original shape after deformation.

What can affect the cost of a material?

Material cost, manufacturing cost, and overall project budget considerations.

What are elastomers known for?

Their ability to stretch and return to their original shape.

What does resilient material mean?

Property that signifies the material can withstand deformation without failure.

Which property is crucial for ensuring safety in material selection?

Non-toxicity and resistance to fire.