Final Answer:
Brittle materials will fracture or fail as they are deformed or stressed past their design limits. (option a)
Step-by-step explanation:
Materials that will fracture or fail as they are deformed or stressed past their design limits are referred to as brittle materials. Brittle materials lack the ability to undergo significant deformation before breaking, and their failure typically occurs suddenly without warning. Examples of brittle materials include ceramics, certain types of glass, and cast iron.
Brittle materials have limited tolerance for deformation, and once they reach their stress or strain limits, they experience rapid and catastrophic failure. This characteristic makes them unsuitable for applications where flexibility or ductility is essential. Understanding the mechanical properties of materials is crucial in designing structures or products, as it influences their behavior under various conditions. Engineers and material scientists carefully select materials based on their properties to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the designed components. In contrast to brittle materials, ductile materials exhibit substantial deformation before failure, providing a more controlled response to stress and strain.
The choice of materials plays a pivotal role in the design and manufacturing processes, impacting the performance, reliability, and safety of the end product. Proper material selection involves considering factors such as the intended application, environmental conditions, and the mechanical properties required for optimal functionality and durability.(option a)