dt key terms

Strength

The ability of a material to withstand a constant force without breaking.

Hardness

The ability of a material to resist indentation and abrasion.

Toughness

The ability for a material to withstand impact from a dynamic force.

Malleability

Ability of a material to be permanently shaped by impact without breaking or cracking.

Ductility

Ability of a material to be pulled or drawn into wires.

Elasticity

The ability of a material to stretch under force and return to its original shape once the force is removed.

Density

Mass per unit volume.

Absorbency

The ability of a material to soak up and retain liquid, heat or light.

Electrical conductivity

How easily electric current can flow through a material.

Thermal conductivity

How easily heat can pass through a material.

Fusibility

How easily a material's state can be altered to become a liquid.

Recyclability

The ability of a material to be processed at the end of its life for reuse.

Aesthetics

The appearance or texture of a material.

Culture

The beliefs, values, customs, and behaviours used by groups and societies.

Society

A group of people that live or interact with each other.

Inclusive design

The design of products that are accessible to, and usable by, as many people in society as reasonably possible.