Topic 2 - describing structures

Question 1

Aesthetics

Answer 1

A branch of philosophy that studies the principles of beauty; the properties of an object that make it pleasing to the senses

Question 2

Margin of safety

Answer 2

The need for something built or manufactured to perform as expected for a long time, so that people’s safety and health are not at risk. In a structure, a margin of safety would ensure that the structure has extra strength to support more load than normal

Question 3

Properties

Answer 3

The characteristics of materials; every material has its own unique set of properties; example of properties include colour, odour and density

Question 4

Composite

Answer 4

Of materials, made up of several different properties, to fulfill a specific purpose

Question 5

Laminations

Answer 5

A process in which a layer of materials is pressed or glued onto other layers

Question 6

4 considerations for choosing materials

Answer 6

• cost
• appearance
• environmental impact
• every efficiency

Question 7

Mobile joints

Answer 7

A joint is designed to allow movement; examples of mobile joints include a door hinge and an elbow

Question 8

Rigid joints

Answer 8

A device designed to fix an object into place; a joint that allows no movement l; examples of a rigid joint include a nail and screw

Question 9

5 categories of rigid joints

Answer 9

• fasteners
• interlocking shapes
• ties
• adhesives
• melting (welding and soldering)