Question 1: Explain two important properties a material should have if it is to be used to make a lightweight and strong bicycle frame.

Answer: Properties such as high strength-to-weight ratio and durability are important. The material should be strong to withstand stresses and lightweight to make pedaling easier.

Question 2: A student wants to design a waterproof outdoor picnic table. Which material would be most suitable? Explain your choice.

Answer: A suitable material would be treated wood or plastic because they are resistant to water and weather conditions, preventing rotting or rusting.

Question 3: Describe the key differences between metals and plastics in terms of their suitability for making storage containers.

Answer: Metals are strong and durable but heavier and can rust; plastics are lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and can be easily shaped. Plastics are often more suitable for lightweight storage containers.

Question 4: Sketch a simple container for storing small electronic components. Indicate which material you would choose and explain why.

Answer: A sketch of a small box with a lid, made from plastic or lightweight metal, with labels indicating material choice. The explanation should mention properties like electrical insulation for plastics or strength and durability for metals.

Question 5: A designer needs to create a lightweight, flexible sports wristband. Which material would you recommend? Justify your answer.

Answer: A flexible material such as silicone rubber or elastic fabric would be suitable because they are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable to wear.

Question 6: Identify two materials that are good conductors of heat and explain a product where they would be used.

Answer: Copper and aluminium are good conductors of heat. They are used in cooking utensils like saucepans and frying pans to distribute heat evenly.

Question 7: Draw a cross-section of a water bottle made from a transparent plastic material. Label the material and explain why it is suitable.

Answer: A vertical cross-section showing the bottle’s walls, labeled as transparent plastic (such as PET). The explanation should mention that it is lightweight, transparent for visibility, and waterproof.

Question 8: A student is designing a protective case for a smartphone. Which material would you suggest and why?

Answer: A flexible, shock-absorbing material such as silicone or rubber would be suitable because it can cushion impacts and protect the phone from damage.

Question 9: Explain why ceramic materials are often used in electrical insulators.

Answer: Ceramics are poor conductors of electricity, making them effective insulators that prevent electrical currents from passing through.

Question 10: Identify a material that is environmentally friendly and commonly used in packaging. Describe its main advantage.

Answer: Paper or cardboard is environmentally friendly because it is biodegradable and recyclable, making it a sustainable packaging option.

Question 11: Plan and sketch a simple product made from recycled materials that could be used as a storage box. Label the materials you would use and explain your choices.

Answer: A rough sketch of a box made from recycled cardboard or plastic, with labels indicating recycled paperboard or plastic. Explanation should mention sustainability, reusability, and durability.