Question 1: Define a smart material and explain how it differs from traditional materials.

Answer: A smart material is a material that can change its properties or shape in response to external stimuli such as temperature, pressure, or light. Unlike traditional materials, smart materials can adapt or respond automatically without external intervention.

Question 2: Describe one example of a smart material and its typical application.

Answer: Shape memory alloys are a smart material that can return to a pre-set shape when heated. They are often used in medical devices like stents or orthodontic wires.

Question 3: Explain how thermochromic materials work and give an example of where they might be used.

Answer: Thermochromic materials change colour in response to temperature changes. An example is colour-changing mugs that reveal designs when hot liquid is poured in.

Question 4: Identify two advantages of using smart materials in product design.

Answer: Smart materials can improve functionality by adapting to changes, and they can reduce the need for mechanical parts, making products lighter and more durable.

Question 5: Design Brief: You are creating a self-healing phone case that repairs minor scratches automatically. What smart material could you use?

Answer: A suitable smart material is a self-healing polymer that can repair small scratches when exposed to certain stimuli, such as heat or light. The sketch should show the phone case with an indication of the self-healing layer and how it responds to damage.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram showing how a shape memory alloy could be used in a wearable device. Label the key parts.

Answer: The sketch should include a shape memory alloy wire integrated into a wearable, such as a bracelet or strap, with labels indicating the alloy, the external stimulus (e.g., heat), and the shape change.

Question 7: Draw a concept for a clothing item that changes colour based on temperature. Include labels for the smart material and how it reacts.

Answer: The drawing should depict a piece of clothing, such as a jacket, with a section showing the thermochromic fabric, and annotations explaining how it changes colour with temperature changes.

Question 8: Propose two challenges you might face when incorporating smart materials into consumer products.

Answer: Challenges include the high cost of smart materials and ensuring their long-term durability and reliable response to stimuli over time.

Question 9: Explain how the environmental conditions might affect the performance of smart materials in real-world applications.

Answer: Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or exposure to sunlight can affect the responsiveness and longevity of smart materials, potentially causing them to malfunction or degrade.

Question 10: Identify a product you use daily that could benefit from smart materials. Justify your choice.

Answer: A pair of sports shoes could benefit from smart materials that adapt to foot temperature or pressure, providing better comfort and support during activity.