Question 1: You are designing a lightweight bike helmet that must be strong, impact-resistant, and comfortable. Which material would you choose and why? List two reasons for your choice.

Answer: A suitable material could be expanded polystyrene foam for impact absorption and a polycarbonate outer shell for strength. Reasons: it is lightweight, impact-resistant, and provides good shock absorption.

Question 2: Describe two important properties you would look for in a material used to make a kitchen spatula. Explain why these properties are important.

Answer: Heat resistance to avoid melting when in contact with hot food, and durability to withstand repeated use without breaking or wearing out quickly.

Question 3: A company wants to produce a waterproof and flexible outdoor storage container. Which material would be most suitable? Justify your answer.

Answer: A suitable material could be polypropylene plastic because it is waterproof, flexible, and resistant to weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Question 4: Sketch a simple design for a lightweight, eco-friendly shopping bag. Label the main features and materials used in your design.

Answer: A sketch of a bag with handles, showing a fabric body, possibly made from recycled cotton or jute. Label the handles as 'recycled cotton' or 'jute' and the body as 'recycled fabric'.

Question 5: Explain why aluminium is often used in the construction of aircraft parts. Mention at least two properties that make it suitable.

Answer: Aluminium is lightweight, which helps reduce overall weight of the aircraft, and it has good strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring durability and safety.

Question 6: Identify a material that would be ideal for making a durable and transparent window. Describe two properties that support your choice.

Answer: Polycarbonate or acrylic plastic, because they are transparent and impact-resistant, providing durability and clear visibility.

Question 7: [CRITICAL THINKING] A designer needs a material that is both flexible and environmentally friendly for a new children’s toy. Suggest an appropriate material and justify your choice.

Answer: Biodegradable silicone or plant-based plastics could be suitable because they are flexible and environmentally friendly, breaking down naturally after disposal.

Question 8: Describe two factors a designer should consider when choosing materials for outdoor furniture exposed to weather conditions.

Answer: Resistance to weathering and corrosion, to ensure longevity, and durability against wear and tear from outdoor use.

Question 9: Plan and sketch a concept for a pencil case that is both lightweight and durable. Indicate the materials you would use and explain your choices in the labels.

Answer: A sketch of a rectangular pencil case with a zip, made from a tough nylon or polyester fabric. Labels should specify 'nylon' or 'polyester' for the body, and 'metal' or 'plastic' for the zipper. Explanation: these materials are lightweight, durable, and resistant to wear.

Question 10: Compare two materials suitable for making a portable electronic device casing. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Answer: Plastic (such as ABS): Advantages include being lightweight, easy to mould, and cost-effective; disadvantages include lower impact resistance. Metal (such as aluminium): Advantages are high strength and heat dissipation; disadvantages include increased weight and cost.