Question 1: Explain why plastic might be a good material for making a child's toy. Mention at least two reasons.

Answer: Plastic is lightweight, durable, and can be easily shaped into various designs, making it safe and suitable for children's toys.

Question 2: You need to design a heat-resistant container for hot drinks. Which material would be most suitable? Explain your choice.

Answer: A suitable material would be ceramic or double-walled insulated stainless steel because they can withstand high temperatures and prevent burns.

Question 3: Describe a scenario where using wood would be preferable over metal in product design. Include at least two reasons.

Answer: Wood is preferable for furniture because it is natural, easy to work with, and provides good insulation. It also has an aesthetic appeal that many people prefer.

Question 4: Sketch a simple design for a lightweight, portable storage box intended for outdoor use. Label the main features and indicate the material you would choose and why.

Answer: A sketch should show a rectangular box with a lid, handles, and possibly ventilation holes. The material could be plastic or lightweight metal, chosen for durability and weather resistance.

Question 5: List three properties that are important when selecting a material for a new bicycle frame. For each property, give an example of a suitable material.

Answer: Lightweight (aluminium), strength (steel), and corrosion resistance (carbon fibre).

Question 6: You are designing a waterproof watch. Which material would you choose for the watch casing? Explain your reasoning.

Answer: A suitable material would be stainless steel or plastic because they are water-resistant, durable, and can withstand exposure to water.

Question 7: Describe the difference between natural and synthetic materials. Provide two examples of each.

Answer: Natural materials are derived from plants or animals, such as wood and cotton. Synthetic materials are man-made, such as nylon and polyester.