A property is a quality of something like strength, stretchiness or absorbency. Materials have properties that help them serve specific purposes. For example, a chair is made of metal or wood because it is strong.
To better understand material properties and their purpose…
LET’S BREAK IT DOWN!
Different materials have different properties.
Metal is strong and not stretchy. Fabric is soft and stretchy. Since these two materials have different properties they are useful for different purposes.
A bridge is made of strong material such as metal.
This helps it hold up lots of heavy cars and trucks. Other materials that are strong include wood and concrete. Many buildings are made of these strong materials.
A bungee cord is made of stretchy material.
This helps it to serve its purpose so that the jumper can slow down safely after they jump. It is also important for a sock to be stretchy so when you put it on it does not rip.
The main purpose of a diaper is to absorb liquids.
That’s why it is made of a super absorbent material to help parents clean up a baby’s mess. Other materials that need to be absorbent are sponges and paper towels.
A raincoat has many properties that serve its purpose.
The important property is that it is not absorbent. This is important to keep the person wearing it dry. It is also flexible so it can be comfortable to wear.