Hardness

Claimed by sgould8 Hardness is the measure of how well a solid object can resist shape change when being exposed to compressive forces.

The Main Idea

Propety of Matter: Hardness is: the measure of how well a solid object can resist shape change when being exposed to compressive forces. Why it matters: Solid matter generally has 3 responses to forces, depending on the force type and amount. Elasticity, plasticity, and fracture. Elasticity is the ability to return to original shape after force has been applied. Plasticity is the solid matter's ability to remain one piece. Fracture is when the solid matter splits into two or more pieces. Stress versus strain graphs show how these responses are related.

Examples and History

Mohs hardness scale: The Mohs scale of mineral hardness organizes the scratch resistance of various minerals. It does this by determining and ranking the ability of a harder material to scratch a softer material. It is named after its creator, Friedrich Mohs, a German mineralogist.

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