Question 1: Define the term 'density' in relation to materials. How does density influence the choice of material for a lightweight product?

Answer: Density is the mass of a material per unit volume. Materials with lower density are lighter, making them suitable for products where weight is a priority, such as portable devices or sporting equipment.

Question 2: Identify two properties of metals that make them suitable for structural components in products. Provide a brief explanation for each property.

Answer: Strength: Metals have high tensile and compressive strength, allowing them to support loads without deforming. Durability: Metals resist wear and deformation over time, making them suitable for long-lasting structural parts.

Question 3: Describe how the property of 'thermal conductivity' affects the choice of materials in cooking utensils.

Answer: High thermal conductivity allows heat to pass quickly through the material, making it efficient for cooking. Materials like copper or aluminium are often used because they heat evenly and rapidly.

Question 4: Explain the significance of 'hardness' in choosing a material for a cutting tool.

Answer: Hardness determines a material's ability to resist scratching and indentation. A hard material maintains a sharp edge longer, which is essential for cutting tools.

Question 5: A designer needs to create a lightweight, flexible sports helmet. Which material property should be prioritized, and why?

Answer: Flexibility or elasticity should be prioritized to absorb impacts and provide comfort, while keeping the helmet lightweight for ease of wear.

Question 6: Design Brief: You are tasked with designing a portable, eco-friendly water bottle. Sketch a simple design plan for the bottle, labeling the key features that utilize specific material properties.

Answer: A sketch of a bottle with labels indicating the body made from a lightweight, durable plastic (highlighting durability and lightness), with a flexible silicone straw (highlighting flexibility), and a screw-top lid made from recycled material.

Question 7: Identify one natural and one synthetic material suitable for making outdoor furniture. Justify your choices based on material properties.

Answer: Natural: Teak wood, because it is durable, resistant to weathering, and has good strength. Synthetic: Polypropylene plastic, because it is lightweight, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Question 8: Describe a scenario where the property 'corrosion resistance' would be critical in material selection. Name a material that exhibits this property.

Answer: In the construction of outdoor bridges, corrosion resistance is critical to prevent deterioration from weather exposure. Stainless steel is a material that exhibits high corrosion resistance.

Question 9: Sketch a design for a protective case for a smartphone. Indicate how the choice of material might influence your design features.

Answer: A sketch of a case with soft, impact-absorbing edges made from silicone or rubber (highlighting flexibility and shock absorption), and a rigid back made from polycarbonate or similar plastic (highlighting durability and rigidity).