Question 1: Define the term 'thermal conductivity' and explain why it is an important property for materials used in cooking utensils.

Answer: Thermal conductivity is the ability of a material to transfer heat. It is important for cooking utensils because high thermal conductivity allows heat to pass through quickly and evenly, ensuring efficient cooking.

Question 2: List three properties that are important for selecting a material for a lightweight bicycle frame.

Answer: Properties include lightweight (low density), high strength, and good fatigue resistance.

Question 3: Describe a scenario where a material's high electrical conductivity would be essential in product design. Name a suitable material for this purpose.

Answer: In the design of electrical wiring, high electrical conductivity ensures efficient transmission of electricity. Copper is a suitable material because it has high electrical conductivity.

Question 4: Explain the difference between elastic and plastic deformation of materials, providing an example of each.

Answer: Elastic deformation is temporary change in shape that is reversible when the force is removed, such as bending a rubber band. Plastic deformation is a permanent change in shape, like bending a metal rod beyond its elastic limit.

Question 5: Sketch a simple design for a protective cover for a smartphone that is made from a material with good shock absorption properties. Label the key features of your design.

Answer: A sketch should show a case with thick, cushioned edges and a flexible material such as silicone or rubber, with labels indicating shock absorption features and coverage over the phone's corners and back.

Question 6: A product needs to resist corrosion because it will be used outdoors in a humid environment. Suggest an appropriate material and justify your choice.

Answer: Stainless steel is appropriate because it is resistant to corrosion due to its chromium content, making it suitable for outdoor, humid environments.

Question 7: Describe how the hardness of a material affects its suitability for a cutting tool, such as a knife.

Answer: Hardness determines how well the material can cut or resist indentation. A harder material will maintain a sharp edge longer, making it more suitable for cutting tools.

Question 8: Identify a material that is both lightweight and strong, suitable for aerospace applications, and explain why.

Answer: Aluminium alloy is lightweight and strong, making it ideal for aerospace components because it reduces weight while maintaining strength.

Question 9: Design Brief: You need to create a reusable water bottle that is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. Which material would you choose and why? Sketch a basic side view of the bottle, labeling the material choice.

Answer: Material choice: Polypropylene or Tritan plastic, because they are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. The sketch should show a bottle with a simple cylindrical shape, a screw-top lid, and labels indicating the plastic material.