Question 1: Define the term 'material properties' and explain why they are important in selecting materials for a product.

Answer: Material properties are characteristics such as strength, flexibility, durability, and weight that determine how a material behaves. They are important because they influence the suitability of a material for specific functions and ensure the product performs safely and effectively.

Question 2: List three different materials commonly used in manufacturing household items and briefly describe one advantage of each.

Answer: 1. Plastic - lightweight and easily moulded. 2. Wood - natural and strong. 3. Metal (e.g., aluminium) - durable and corrosion-resistant.

Question 3: Imagine you are designing a lightweight, durable bicycle frame. Which material would you choose and why? Justify your choice based on material properties.

Answer: I would choose aluminium because it is lightweight, strong, resistant to corrosion, and easy to shape, making it ideal for a bicycle frame that needs to be durable yet not heavy.

Question 4: Describe a scenario where a flexible material would be more suitable than a rigid one. Explain your reasoning.

Answer: A flexible material would be more suitable for a wearable wristband because it can bend and conform to the shape of the wrist, providing comfort and adjustability.

Question 5: You are designing a storage container that needs to withstand impacts and be weather-resistant. Which material would you select? Explain your choice.

Answer: I would choose high-density polyethylene (HDPE) because it is impact-resistant, weatherproof, and durable, making it suitable for outdoor storage containers.

Question 6: Draw a simple sketch of a product that uses a transparent material. Label the material and explain why transparency is important for this product.

Answer: A sketch of a glass jar or display case with clear walls. Labels: 'Transparent Material: Glass or Clear Plastic.' Transparency allows users to see the contents or assess the product visually without opening it.

Question 7: Design Brief: You need to create a lightweight, eco-friendly lunchbox for school. What material(s) would you choose and why? Include considerations of safety, durability, and environmental impact.

Answer: I would choose bamboo or recycled plastic because they are eco-friendly, lightweight, and durable. Bamboo is natural, biodegradable, and safe for food contact, making it a sustainable choice for a lunchbox.

Question 8: Sketch a concept for a handle that is comfortable to hold and made from a soft, non-slip material. Include notes on the choice of material and why it is suitable.

Answer: The sketch should depict a handle with a contoured shape for grip. Notes should mention using silicone or rubber for the handle surface to ensure comfort and prevent slipping during use.

Question 9: Explain the difference between a natural material and an synthetic material. Provide an example of each and a situation where each would be preferable.

Answer: A natural material is derived from nature, such as wood or cotton. A synthetic material is man-made, like nylon or plastic. Natural materials are preferable for eco-friendly products, while synthetics are better for items requiring specific properties like water resistance or strength.

Question 10: Identify a material that is commonly used for outdoor furniture and justify its use based on its properties.

Answer: Teak wood is commonly used because it is naturally resistant to weather, durable, and requires minimal maintenance, making it suitable for outdoor furniture.