Meterials and their propertie
A material is the substance that an object is made from, such as wood, metal, plastic, glass, or rubber.
Common Properties of Materials
PropertyMeaningExampleHardDifficult to scratch or breakIron, stoneSoftEasy to press or bendCotton, spongeStrongCan hold heavy loads without breakingSteelWeakBreaks easilyChalkFlexibleCan bend without breakingRubberRigidCannot bend easilyGlass, woodTransparentLight passes through clearlyClear glassTranslucentLets some light throughFrosted glassOpaqueDoes not let light throughWoodWaterproofDoes not let water pass throughPlasticAbsorbentSoaks up waterSponge, towelMagneticAttracted to magnetsIron, steelElectrical conductorAllows electricity to flowCopperElectrical insulatorDoes not allow electricity to flowRubber, plasticThermal conductorAllows heat to pass throughAluminiumThermal insulatorDoes not allow heat to pass through easilyWood, foam
Why are material properties important?
We choose materials based on their properties. For example:
Pots and pans are made of metal because metals conduct heat well.
Electrical wire covers are made of plastic because plastic is an electrical insulator.
Raincoats are made of waterproof materials.
Windows are made of glass because it is transparent.