Material Classification
Overview
Before you can choose a material wisely you have to know the family it belongs to and the way that family behaves. Material classification is the map: it sorts the huge range of materials a designer might use into a handful of groups, each with shared properties and working characteristics, so that naming the class tells you a great deal about what the material will and will not do.
This note classifies the materials on the 0445 syllabus: papers and boards, the three kinds of wood, ferrous and non-ferrous metals and alloys, the two kinds of polymer, and the newer composites and smart materials. For each you will learn the key properties and working characteristics that decide where it is used, and the language examiners expect you to use to describe them.
Objectives
- understand the classification, properties and working characteristics of the following materials: - papers and boards - hardwoods, softwoods and manufactured boards - ferrous and non-ferrous metals and alloys - thermo polymers and thermosetting polymers - composites and smart materials.
Audio Lesson
Listen to this lesson in the app
Mind map
This topic is mapped out so you can see how the ideas connect.
Open the mind map in the app
Flashcards
Quick recall practice on the facts this topic is tested on.
Practise these cards in the app
Lesson Note
Complete Note Available on the Green Bridge App
Get the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer for the complete IGCSE library: past papers, mark schemes, mind maps, flashcards and audio lessons.
Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Material Classification. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Which property describes a material's ability to absorb impact without cracking? A. Hardness B. Brittleness C. Toughness D. Density Answer: C
- A ferrous metal is one that: A. Contains no iron B. Contains iron C. Is always non-magnetic D. Is always an alloy Answer: B
- Which statement about thermosetting polymers is correct? A. They soften and can be reshaped every time they are heated B. They undergo a permanent change when set and do not soften on reheating C. They are always transparent D. They can be recycled by melting like thermoplastics Answer: B
- Why is 'hardwood' not a reliable guide to how hard a wood feels? A. All hardwoods are soft B. The term is botanical (broad-leaved trees), so some hardwoods such as balsa are very soft C. Hardwoods are always manufactured boards D. Hardness cannot be measured Answer: B
- Which of these is a smart material that changes colour with temperature? A. Glass-reinforced plastic B. Thermochromic pigment C. Mild steel D. Plywood Answer: B
Work through these questions in the app
Work through these questions in the app
Recommended Books
Practice Mock Questions
Want to practice mock questions on Material Classification? Download the Green Bridge CBT app to access mock questions and full practice assessments for this topic.
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
