Final answer:
Small glass or plastic balls are used to make reinforced plastics, which improve the strength and durability of thermosetting polymers. Reinforced plastics are widely used in products requiring enhanced mechanical properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Small glass or plastic balls are sometimes used to make reinforced plastics. The correct choice is A) Reinforced. Reinforced plastics, commonly known as composite materials, are formed by adding strength-enhancing fibers or particles to a plastic matrix. Examples of reinforcing materials include glass microspheres, which can be added to thermosetting polymers like epoxy resins to create stronger, more durable materials.Thermosetting polymers are known for their ability to harden permanently when cured and do not soften upon reheating. They are different from thermoplastics, which can be melted and reshaped multiple times. Reinforced plastics are used in a variety of applications, including automotive parts, sporting goods, and in the aerospace industry, due to their improved mechanical properties compared to their unreinforced counterparts.Common examples of thermosetting polymers include Bakelite, used in electrical insulators and cookware handles, and silicones, which find use in a broad range of products due to their stability and resistance to extreme temperatures and environments.