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I/GCSE Chemistry: Properties of Materials (Part 1)

How do we measure the properties of materials and why are the results useful?

February 3, 2023

In I/GCSE Chemistry, we will learn about Properties of Materials.

Properties

Different materials behave in different ways because they have different PROPERTIES. Solid materials can differ in one or more of the following ways:

  • Melting point
  • Strength in tension (when pulled)
  • Strength in compression (when pushed)
  • Stiffness
  • Hardness
  • Density

Refer to I/GCSE Chemistry, many of the products that we use are made using PLASTICS, RUBBERS and FIBRES. The SUTABILITY of a material to a particular job depends on its properties.

Unvulcanised Rubbers

Properties:

• Low tensile strength

• Soft

• Flexible / Elastic

Uses:

• Erasers

• Rubber bands

Vulcanised Rubbers

Properties:

• High tensile strength

• Hard

• Flexible / Elastic

Uses:

• Car tyres

• Conveyor belts

• Shock absorbers

Plastic- Polythene

Properties:

• Light

• Flexible

• Easily moulded

 

When it comes to I/GCSE Chemistry, the uses of it:

• Plastic bags

• Cling film

• Water pipes

Plastic – Polystyrene

Properties:

• Light

• Insulation properties

• Water resistant

Uses:

• Meat trays

• Egg cartons

• Coffee cups

• Packaging

End of Part 1. Go to Part 2~