Metals: Metals are hard,
malleable, (meaning capable of being shaped), and somewhat flexible materials.
Metals are also very strong. Their combination of strength and flexibility
makes them useful in structural applications. When the surface of a metal is
polished it has a lustrous appearance; although this surface luster is usually
obscured by the presence of dirt, grease and salt. Metals are not transparent
to visible light. Also, metals are extremely good conductors of electricity and
heat.
Ceramics: Ceramics are very
hard and strong, but lack flexibility making them brittle. Ceramics are
extremely resistant to high temperatures and chemicals. Ceramics can typically
withstand more brutal environments than metals or polymers. Ceramics are
usually not good conductors of electricity or heat.
Polymers: Polymers are mostly
soft and not as strong as metals or ceramics. Polymers can be extremely
flexible. Low density and viscous behavior under elevated temperatures are
typical polymer traits. Polymers can be insulative to electricity.
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