Question 1: Describe three different types of mechanical joints used to connect two pieces of wood. Include their typical applications.

Answer: Examples include dowel joints, mortise and tenon joints, and butt joints. Dowel joints use wooden or metal dowels inserted into holes to connect pieces; mortise and tenon joints involve a projecting tenon fitting into a mortise hole; butt joints are simply glued or fixed at the ends. Each is used based on strength requirements and the type of project.

Question 2: Explain the main differences between welding and soldering when joining metals.

Answer: Welding involves melting the base metals to form a strong, permanent joint, typically used for structural purposes. Soldering uses a filler metal with a lower melting point to join metals, often for electrical or delicate applications, and does not melt the base metals.

Question 3: Identify two advantages and two disadvantages of using adhesives for joining materials.

Answer: Advantages: They provide a smooth finish and can bond dissimilar materials. Disadvantages: They may not be as strong as mechanical joints and can degrade over time due to environmental factors.

Question 4: Design Brief: You need to create a lightweight, portable stand for a tablet. Which joining method would be most suitable to assemble the parts securely while allowing for easy disassembly? Explain your choice.

Answer: A suitable method could be using interlocking joints or screws with nuts and bolts. These allow the stand to be assembled securely and taken apart easily for transport or storage.

Question 5: Sketch a simple plan for a wooden box that uses at least two different joining techniques. Include labels for the joints and materials.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a rectangular box with a dovetail joint on the corners and a butt joint reinforced with screws or nails on the sides. The plan should clearly indicate the placement of each joint and the materials used.

Question 6: Draw a diagram of a basic screw and illustrate how it joins two pieces of wood. Label the main parts of the screw and explain how it works.

Answer: A correct diagram would show a helical screw thread, the head, and a shaft. The explanation: The screw is turned into the wood, and the threads grip the material, pulling the two pieces together as it is tightened.

Question 7: List three safety precautions to follow when using power tools for joining materials.

Answer: Wear safety goggles to protect eyes, keep hands away from moving parts, and ensure the workpiece is securely clamped before cutting or drilling.

Question 8: Explain why choosing the correct joining method is important for the durability of a product.

Answer: The right joining method ensures the product can withstand the forces it will experience, prevents failure or breakage, and increases the overall lifespan of the product.

Question 9: Identify two factors to consider when selecting a joining technique for a project involving metal components.

Answer: Factors include the strength required of the joint and whether the joint needs to be permanent or removable. Cost and the type of metals involved are also important considerations.

Question 10: Describe a scenario where adhesive bonding would be preferred over mechanical fastening.

Answer: Adhesive bonding is preferred when a smooth surface finish is needed, or when materials are too delicate for drilling or nailing, such as bonding plastic or thin metal sheets.