The New Science Of Strong Materials by J. E. Gordon
  • 1. The New Science Of Strong Materials by J. E. Gordon is a captivating exploration into the fundamental principles governing the strength and behavior of materials used in engineering and construction. In this thought-provoking work, Gordon delves into the intricate relationships between material properties and their practical applications, seamlessly weaving together historical anecdotes, scientific insights, and real-world examples. Through his engaging narrative, he uncovers the underlying mechanisms that dictate why certain materials excel in specific contexts, such as the unmatched tensile strength of steel or the remarkable resilience of wood. The book not only highlights the advances in materials science but also emphasizes the importance of understanding the limitations and potential of different substances. Readers are introduced to key concepts in mechanics, resilience, and the evolution of material technology, making complex ideas accessible and relatable. Ultimately, Gordon's exploration encourages a deeper appreciation for the materials that shape our world, urging engineers and architects alike to innovate and rethink traditional approaches to design and construction in light of new scientific discoveries.

    According to Gordon, why are large structures more vulnerable to stress concentration than small ones?
A) They have lower density
B) They conduct electricity poorly
C) They contain more flaws and defects
D) They expand when heated
  • 2. What fundamental principle explains why thin wires are stronger than thick ones?
A) They have fewer surface defects
B) They contain more impurities
C) They heat up faster
D) They are more flexible
  • 3. What is Griffith's criterion concerned with?
A) Magnetic properties of materials
B) Electrical resistance in circuits
C) The relationship between crack length and fracture stress
D) Thermal conductivity of metals
  • 4. Why does Gordon say glass appears strong but is actually brittle?
A) It melts at low temperatures
B) It expands when cooled
C) Surface flaws cause stress concentration
D) It conducts heat poorly
  • 5. What is the main reason metals can be both strong and tough?
A) They don't rust easily
B) They can deform plastically
C) They are always crystalline
D) They conduct electricity well
  • 6. What does Gordon identify as the key difference between strength and stiffness?
A) Strength is about fracture, stiffness about deformation
B) Strength measures weight, stiffness measures volume
C) Strength concerns electricity, stiffness concerns heat
D) Strength relates to color, stiffness to shape
  • 7. Why are composite materials often stronger than their individual components?
A) They are always heavier
B) They conduct heat better
C) They are more expensive to produce
D) They combine different material properties
  • 8. Why are crystals often strong in certain directions?
A) They heat up unevenly
B) They conduct electricity better
C) Atomic bonds are directional
D) They contain more air pockets
  • 9. What is fatigue failure?
A) Failure due to single impact
B) Failure from electrical current
C) Failure under repeated loading
D) Failure from overheating
  • 10. What is creep in materials science?
A) Rapid fracture under impact
B) Change in electrical resistance
C) Color change with temperature
D) Slow deformation under constant load
  • 11. How does grain size affect metal strength?
A) Only very large grains affect strength
B) Smaller grains generally increase strength
C) Grain size has no effect
D) Larger grains always increase strength
  • 12. What is the main reason for using prestressed concrete?
A) To make it lighter
B) To improve electrical conductivity
C) To change its color
D) To put concrete in compression
  • 13. What is the significance of the yield point in metals?
A) Point of electrical conductivity change
B) Transition from elastic to plastic deformation
C) Temperature where color changes
D) Density measurement point
  • 14. Why are biological materials often self-healing?
A) They can repair damage biologically
B) They conduct electricity well
C) They have magnetic properties
D) They contain special metals
  • 15. How does surface treatment affect glass strength?
A) It only changes appearance
B) It improves electrical properties
C) Removing surface flaws increases strength
D) It reduces thermal conductivity
  • 16. What principle makes arches strong structural elements?
A) They work mainly in compression
B) They have magnetic properties
C) They are always made of steel
D) They conduct stress evenly
  • 17. What common engineering material does Gordon criticize for its limitations?
A) Titanium alloy
B) Aluminum
C) Carbon fiber
D) Mild steel
  • 18. What phenomenon causes materials to fail under repeated loading?
A) Fatigue
B) Creep
C) Wear
D) Corrosion
  • 19. What property describes a material's resistance to scratching?
A) Hardness
B) Toughness
C) Strength
D) Stiffness
  • 20. What type of material failure occurs gradually over time under constant load?
A) Plastic collapse
B) Creep
C) Brittle fracture
D) Fatigue
  • 21. What is the main limitation of ceramic materials?
A) Poor thermal resistance
B) Low melting point
C) Brittleness
D) High cost
  • 22. What property describes a material's ability to return to original shape after deformation?
A) Malleability
B) Elasticity
C) Ductility
D) Plasticity
  • 23. What natural material does Gordon discuss as having excellent toughness?
A) Stone
B) Wood
C) Clay
D) Sand
  • 24. What makes biological materials like bone and shell efficient?
A) Uniform composition
B) Optimized composite structures
C) Perfect crystallinity
D) High density
  • 25. What property describes a material's ability to deform without breaking?
A) Brittleness
B) Ductility
C) Hardness
D) Stiffness
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