Materials

Q2. The sketch graph shows the tensile stress–tensile strain graphs up to their breaking stress, for four materials, A, B, C and D.

(a) State what is meant by tensile stress and tensile strain.

[2 marks]

(b) Identify a property of material A using evidence from the graph to support your choice.

[2 marks]

(c) A cylindrical specimen of material A under test has a diameter of 1.5 × 10–4 m and a breaking stress of 1.3 GPa.

Calculate the tensile force acting on the specimen at its breaking point.

[3 marks]

(d) Discuss which of the four materials shown on the graph is most suitable for each of the following applications:

the cable supporting a lift in a tall building

a rope or cable attached to a person doing a bungee jump.

For each application, you should discuss the reason for your choice and why you rejected the other materials.

[6 marks]

(Total 13 marks)