physical properties

Question 1

electrical conductor

Answer 1

Allows the flow of electrical current through the material. Good conductor - little resistance to the charge flow

Question 2

electrical insulator

Answer 2

Does not allow the flow of electricity through the material (thermoset polymer - electricity switches)

Question 3

thermal conductor

Answer 3

Allows the transfer of heat veneer through the material. A material with high thermal conductivity allows the transfer of heat to occur quickly across the material (diamond, gold)

Question 4

thermal insulator

Answer 4

Prevents the transfer of heat through the material (ceramics)

Question 5

thermal expansion

Answer 5

Increase in material volume in response to a heat input (tarmac, a road)

Question 6

opaque

Answer 6

Prevents light from travelling through (wood, concrete)

Question 7

translucent

Answer 7

Allows light through, diffuses light so that objects appear blurred (i.e., - frosted glass)

Question 8

transparent

Answer 8

allows light through clearly

Question 9

density

Answer 9

mass of the material in a standard volume of space (silver)

Question 10

fusibility

Answer 10

Ability of the material to be fused or converted (solid → liquid → molten) usually by heat. Essential property for a metal being cast (copper)

Question 11

magnetism

Answer 11

Natural force between objects that cause the material to attract iron/steel (bar augment, mix of nickel, cobalt and aluminium)

Question 12

corrosion/degradation resistance

Answer 12

Ability of material to withstand environment attack and decay