Question 1: Describe three important properties you should consider when choosing a material for making a lightweight bicycle frame.

Answer: Properties such as high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and corrosion resistance.

Question 2: A designer needs to create a set of kitchen utensils that are heat-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. Suggest two suitable materials and justify your choices.

Answer: Stainless steel for its heat resistance and durability, and silicone for its heat resistance and easy cleaning.

Question 3: Explain why plastic is often used for making consumer electronic casings, and mention two advantages and one disadvantage.

Answer: Plastic is lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to mould into complex shapes. A disadvantage is that it can be less durable than metal and may degrade over time.

Question 4: Design Brief: You are asked to develop a durable, eco-friendly shopping bag handle. Which material(s) would you choose and why?

Answer: A suitable material might be recycled natural fibres or biodegradable plastics because they are eco-friendly and strong enough for handles.

Question 5: Sketch a simple design for a chair leg using a material that is strong, lightweight, and cost-effective. Label the sketch with the material you would use.

Answer: Sketch should show a cylindrical or rectangular leg, labeled with 'aluminium' or 'bamboo', indicating strength and lightness.

Question 6: A company wants to produce a weatherproof outdoor sculpture. Which material would you recommend and why? Consider factors like weather resistance and appearance.

Answer: Materials such as stainless steel or treated concrete, because they resist weathering and can be finished attractively.

Question 7: Identify a material suitable for making a children’s toy that needs to be safe, non-toxic, and durable. Justify your choice.

Answer: Silicone or BPA-free plastic, as they are non-toxic, safe for children, and durable.

Question 8: Describe the key differences between natural and synthetic materials with regard to sustainability and cost.

Answer: Natural materials are generally more sustainable as they are biodegradable and renewable, but can be more expensive and variable in quality. Synthetic materials are often cheaper, consistent, but less environmentally friendly due to their non-biodegradable nature.

Question 9: Design Brief: You need to create a lightweight and strong storage container for outdoor camping. Sketch your design and specify the material(s) you would choose, explaining your reasoning.

Answer: A sketch of a container with a sturdy, lightweight material like polycarbonate or high-density polyethylene. Labels should note the material choice and reasoning—strength, lightness, weather resistance.