Question 1: Describe three key properties you would consider when choosing a material for a lightweight bicycle frame.

Answer: Properties such as high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and corrosion resistance.

Question 2: A designer wants to create a children's toy that is soft, safe, and easy to clean. Which material would you recommend and why?

Answer: A suitable material could be silicone or soft plastics because they are soft, non-toxic, and easy to clean.

Question 3: Explain why metals like aluminium are often used in the construction of car bodies.

Answer: Aluminium is lightweight, strong, corrosion-resistant, and easy to shape, making it ideal for car bodies.

Question 4: Sketch a design plan for a protective case for a smartphone using a suitable material. Your plan should include the shape and how the material will protect the phone.

Answer: A sketch showing a rectangular case with rounded edges, made from impact-absorbing silicone or rubber, with cutouts for buttons and ports.

Question 5: Label the key properties of the following materials: wood, plastic, and metal, and explain where each would be most appropriately used in product design.

Answer: Wood: natural, strong, and easy to shape; used in furniture. Plastic: versatile, lightweight, and inexpensive; used in packaging and consumer products. Metal: strong, durable, and conductive; used in tools and structural components.

Question 6: Design a concept for a reusable water bottle. Include details on the choice of materials and justify your selection.

Answer: Use a BPA-free plastic or stainless steel for the body, as they are durable, safe for drinking, and easy to clean. Justification: plastic is lightweight and inexpensive; steel is more durable and environmentally friendly.

Question 7: Identify two synthetic materials and discuss their advantages and disadvantages when used in everyday products.

Answer: Polypropylene: advantages include flexibility and chemical resistance; disadvantages include environmental impact and difficulty in recycling. Polycarbonate: advantages include strength and clarity; disadvantages include potential health concerns when heated.

Question 8: Sketch a concept for a lightweight, foldable camping chair. Indicate which materials you would choose for the seat, frame, and joints, and explain your choices.

Answer: A sketch showing a compact, foldable chair with a fabric seat, aluminium or plastic frame, and reinforced joints. The fabric is lightweight and durable; aluminium or plastic offers strength without weight; joints are reinforced with plastic or metal for durability.

Question 9: What considerations should be made when selecting materials for a product intended to be used outdoors? List at least three factors.

Answer: Weather resistance, UV stability, corrosion resistance, and durability.

Question 10: Compare the environmental impacts of using recycled plastic versus virgin plastic in product manufacturing.

Answer: Recycled plastic reduces waste and energy consumption, lowers environmental footprint, but may have inconsistent quality. Virgin plastic has predictable properties but contributes to plastic pollution and resource depletion.