2. MATERIAL PROPERTIES

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Ideally materials are a microscopic matrix of small balls that form a larger solid. In reality the atoms that make of solids fall into local pockets of well organized matrices. It is very rare to find a solid that is made up of a single structure.

If solids were made of single well organized molecules they would be significantly stronger. But, small deformations and cracks weaken materials to the values we are more accustomed to.

Material properties are a function of multiple factors. Primarily chemistry determines what atoms are available to make up the structure. Also, the atoms are dispersed in a non-homogenous mix.

Solids typically fail because cracks form, and then quickly propagate through solids. It is the chemistry and non-homogenous structure that can slow or stop these cracks. The composition of the solid also determines how stiff it is.