Which term describes the ability to bend and then to return to its original shape and size?

Which term describes the ability to bend and then to return to its original shape and size?

• A. Elasticity
• B. Plasticity
• C. Ductility
• D. Malleability

Answer: (A)

Elasticity is the ability of a material to deform when a force is applied and then return to its original shape (and size) when the force is removed, as long as the deformation stays within the elastic limit. This means small bends or stretches are reversible. If you push beyond that limit, the material undergoes permanent, plastic deformation and won’t spring back. That’s why materials like rubber or springs demonstrate elasticity, while plasticity, ductility, and malleability describe other ways materials permanently deform or shape themselves under different kinds of forces.

Elasticity is the ability of a material to deform when a force is applied and then return to its original shape (and size) when the force is removed, as long as the deformation stays within the elastic limit. This means small bends or stretches are reversible. If you push beyond that limit, the material undergoes permanent, plastic deformation and won’t spring back. That’s why materials like rubber or springs demonstrate elasticity, while plasticity, ductility, and malleability describe other ways materials permanently deform or shape themselves under different kinds of forces.