Practice IB Design Technology (DT) Topic 4.1 Properties of Materials with authentic exam-style questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank focuses on the exact syllabus content for 4.1 Properties of Materials and mirrors Paper 1, 2, 3 style where relevant.
Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build confidence with questions aligned to IB examiner expectations.
The table below lists the characteristics of four different smart materials.
| Material | Triggering Stimulus | Observed Response |
|---|---|---|
| W | UV radiation | Reversible change in colour |
| X | Mechanical stress | Generation of a small electric voltage |
| Y | Thermal energy | Reversion to a pre-programmed shape |
| Z | Physical pressure | Significant drop in electrical resistance |
Which material in the table displays the properties of a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA)?
The aircraft canopy of the fighter jet in Figure 1 allows the pilot to see out while flying. It is made from a thick polycarbonate which can absorb the impact of any debris.
Figure 1: An aircraft canopy
[Source: https://pixabay.com]
What mechanical property does this demonstrate?
Zuperzozial is a Dutch company that manufactures a range of kitchenware (plates, cups, serving utensils, and vessels) from biodegradable bioplastic that is made from renewable resources (such as, corn, sugar cane and grain), see Figure 14.
The environmentally conscious kitchenware is stylish and durable. It also has a similar weight, feel, performance and dimensions to existing ceramic products. Zuperzozial are distributing their product through specialist kitchen stores, where they are displayed alongside conventional kitchenware. Zuperzozial needs to sell the kitchenware at a slightly higher cost than conventional kitchenware to recover the cost of the new technology used to manufacture using bioplastics.
Outline one psychological factor the Zuperzozial kitchenware’s designers need to consider.
Explain one advantage of using Finite element analysis (FEA) and one advantage of using physical models for testing the Zuperzozial kitchenware.
Explain one physical property that the material used in the Zuperzozial kitchenware needs to possess.
Explain how Rogers’ characteristics of relative advantage, compatibility and observability help in the diffusion of the Zuperzozial kitchenware.
A product designer is selecting a material for a smartphone screen. Which mechanical property is the primary requirement for ensuring the surface resists scratching from everyday objects such as keys or coins?
The production of gold leaf involves hammering the metal into extremely thin, continuous sheets for use in decorative arts. Which mechanical property of gold allows it to be shaped in this way without fracturing?