The New Science Of Strong Materials by J. E. Gordon - Test
  • 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 contain more flaws and defects
B) They expand when heated
C) They conduct electricity poorly
D) They have lower density
  • 2. What fundamental principle explains why thin wires are stronger than thick ones?
A) They heat up faster
B) They have fewer surface defects
C) They are more flexible
D) They contain more impurities
  • 3. What is Griffith's criterion concerned with?
A) Magnetic properties of materials
B) Electrical resistance in circuits
C) Thermal conductivity of metals
D) The relationship between crack length and fracture stress
  • 4. Why does Gordon say glass appears strong but is actually brittle?
A) It expands when cooled
B) It melts at low temperatures
C) It conducts heat poorly
D) Surface flaws cause stress concentration
  • 5. What is the main reason metals can be both strong and tough?
A) They are always crystalline
B) They conduct electricity well
C) They don't rust easily
D) They can deform plastically
  • 6. What does Gordon identify as the key difference between strength and stiffness?
A) Strength concerns electricity, stiffness concerns heat
B) Strength measures weight, stiffness measures volume
C) Strength relates to color, stiffness to shape
D) Strength is about fracture, stiffness about deformation
  • 7. Why are composite materials often stronger than their individual components?
A) They combine different material properties
B) They are more expensive to produce
C) They are always heavier
D) They conduct heat better
  • 8. Why are crystals often strong in certain directions?
A) They heat up unevenly
B) They conduct electricity better
C) They contain more air pockets
D) Atomic bonds are directional
  • 9. What is fatigue failure?
A) Failure due to single impact
B) Failure from electrical current
C) Failure from overheating
D) Failure under repeated loading
  • 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) Larger grains always increase strength
C) Grain size has no effect
D) Smaller grains generally increase strength
  • 12. What is the main reason for using prestressed concrete?
A) To improve electrical conductivity
B) To put concrete in compression
C) To make it lighter
D) To change its color
  • 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) Density measurement point
D) Temperature where color changes
  • 14. Why are biological materials often self-healing?
A) They can repair damage biologically
B) They contain special metals
C) They have magnetic properties
D) They conduct electricity well
  • 15. How does surface treatment affect glass strength?
A) Removing surface flaws increases strength
B) It reduces thermal conductivity
C) It only changes appearance
D) It improves electrical properties
  • 16. What principle makes arches strong structural elements?
A) They have magnetic properties
B) They work mainly in compression
C) They conduct stress evenly
D) They are always made of steel
  • 17. What common engineering material does Gordon criticize for its limitations?
A) Carbon fiber
B) Aluminum
C) Titanium alloy
D) Mild steel
  • 18. What phenomenon causes materials to fail under repeated loading?
A) Wear
B) Fatigue
C) Corrosion
D) Creep
  • 19. What property describes a material's resistance to scratching?
A) Toughness
B) Hardness
C) Stiffness
D) Strength
  • 20. What type of material failure occurs gradually over time under constant load?
A) Brittle fracture
B) Plastic collapse
C) Fatigue
D) Creep
  • 21. What is the main limitation of ceramic materials?
A) Low melting point
B) Poor thermal resistance
C) Brittleness
D) High cost
  • 22. What property describes a material's ability to return to original shape after deformation?
A) Plasticity
B) Elasticity
C) Ductility
D) Malleability
  • 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) Hardness
C) Ductility
D) Stiffness
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