The term materials refers to types of matter with specific characteristics. It is worth noting that from a physical point of view, matter is called every observable entity with energy , which can be measured and located in a spatiotemporal way; the materials represent different types of mass materials (measurable in quantity). In fact, there are forms of matter that lack mass, such as light or electromagnetic radiation, and the materials are forms of mass matter. They can have different characteristics according to their composition, depending on the related properties. Matter
First, materials have electrical properties that determine the passage of an electrical current . Thus, there are some materials that act as conductors that allow the easy passage of electricity and that act as insulators to prevent the passage of current. And finally those that work as semiconductors, that is, those that only allow the passage of electricity through certain conditions, such as a certain temperature . Matter
Second, materials have mechanical properties, that is, they have a certain behavior when exposed to the forces of nature. Thus, we can speak of elasticity, which is the ability to recover its natural shape when the force that affected it ceases to have an effect; plasticity, which is basically the opposite, that is, the possibility that the material has permanent deformations; malleability, which consists in the property of materials in being able to spread in sheets; the ductility , which is the ability of forming wires; hardness, which is the resistance offered; the tenacity , which consists of the resistance to be broken when it is hit.
Thirdly, materials have thermal properties, that is, they maintain a behavior in heat. Thus, materials can have thermal conductivity as they transmit heat; they may have fusibility, which determines their ability to melt in the face of heat; welding, which is their ability to weld themselves; and finally, they can show expansion, which is the capacity they have to increase in size when exposed to heat. Matter
Fourthly, the materials have optical properties, that is, they have a certain behavior towards light. In this way, materials can be opaque, transparent or translucent, depending on how they are viewed.
Finally, it is noteworthy that materials also have acoustic properties as they transmit sound, or magnetic properties, according to their ability to attract other materials.
The knowledge of all these characteristics and their application in the manufacture of goods is very important, as it enables the resolution of problems present in everyday life. That’s why courses based on this theme were created in an exclusive way, in order to cover the needs of the labor market. Matter
