Contents
Key Stage 3
Meaning
Ceramics are hard and brittle materials that are made by heating a mixture in an oven.
About Ceramics
- Ceramics are very strong and so a large force can be applied before they break.
- Ceramics are brittle so they break easily when they are hit suddenly by a large force.
Examples
- Bricks - Ceramic blocks used to build houses.
- Pottery - Ceramic bowls, plates, cups and pots used for storing/holding food and drink.
Key Stage 4
Meaning
Ceramics are hard and brittle materials that are made by heating a mixture in an oven.
About Ceramics
Applications and Properties
| Application | Properties |
| Plates | Hard - They are not easily scratched.
Poor Thermal Conductors - Hot food is insulated from the table below preventing it from cooling too quickly. |
| Heat Shields | Poor Thermal Conductors - Spacecraft re-entering the atmosphere are protected from extreme temperatures. |