Question 1: Define the term 'durability' when referring to materials used in product design. Provide an example of a product that requires a highly durable material.

Answer: Durability refers to how well a material can withstand wear, pressure, or damage over time. An example is a bicycle frame, which needs to be made from a durable material to withstand repeated use and impacts.

Question 2: Describe two properties that are important when selecting materials for a lightweight, portable device such as a tablet or smartphone.

Answer: Two important properties are lightness (low density) to ensure portability, and strength to prevent breaking or damage during handling.

Question 3: Explain the difference between 'flexibility' and 'rigidity' in materials. Give an example of a product that benefits from each property.

Answer: Flexibility is the ability of a material to bend without breaking, such as rubber used in seals. Rigidity is the stiffness of a material, which resists deformation, such as metal used in structural beams.

Question 4: Design Brief: You are tasked with creating a lightweight, eco-friendly storage box for outdoor use. Which material property should you prioritize and why?

Answer: You should prioritize lightweight and weather-resistant properties, such as durability against moisture and UV exposure, to ensure the box is easy to carry and withstands outdoor conditions.

Question 5: Draw a sketch of a simple container that uses a material with high thermal insulation properties. Label the key feature related to the insulation.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a container with thick walls, possibly with a layered structure or insulating lining. Label the 'Insulating Layer' to show its role in reducing heat transfer.

Question 6: List three properties of metals that make them suitable for use in construction.

Answer: High strength, ductility (ability to be shaped), and thermal conductivity.

Question 7: Identify a non-metallic material that is often used in products requiring electrical insulation. Describe one property that makes it suitable for this purpose.

Answer: Plastic is often used for electrical insulation because it is a good insulator, preventing the flow of electricity and reducing the risk of shocks.

Question 8: Sketch a design for a handle made from a material that provides good grip and comfort. Include a note on the material property that makes it suitable.

Answer: A sketch should show a handle with a textured surface or ergonomic shape. The note should mention properties like 'high friction' or 'softness' for comfort and grip.

Question 9: Explain how the property of 'corrosion resistance' influences the choice of materials for outdoor furniture.

Answer: Corrosion resistance prevents materials from rusting or degrading when exposed to moisture and weather, making them more durable and suitable for outdoor use.

Question 10: Design Brief: You need to create a new type of lightweight, recyclable packaging material. What property should the material have to be environmentally friendly, and why?

Answer: The material should be recyclable, meaning it can be reprocessed and reused, reducing waste and environmental impact.