Question

We daily encounter evidence of things that have changed over time. For example, an instructor finds a stick of chalk that has become too small to use, or a student finds that jeans have become so worn that a hole has formed in the fabric. Identify three examples of everyday objects that change over time but at different rates. For example, something that is used up or worn out in a matter of days (for example, chalk), months (for example, jeans), or years.

Short answer

Bread for days, shoes for months, and furniture for years.

Step-by-step solution

Identify fast-changing object

Think about objects that are used frequently and tend to wear out quickly, like in a matter of days. Consider items such as food products or consumables. For example, a loaf of bread can become stale or moldy within a few days of purchasing due to exposure to air and moisture.

Identify medium-changing object

Consider objects that experience wear and tear over a span of months. Look at clothing items or gadgets that see regular use. An example would be a pair of shoes. With daily usage, shoes can get worn out within several months due to factors like walking, running, and environmental exposure.

Identify slow-changing object

For objects that change over a period of years, think about items designed for longevity or infrequent use. An example would be furniture, such as a couch, which may last for many years with regular use but will eventually show signs of wear, like sagging or fading, due to prolonged use over time.

Key concepts

Material Degradation

Material degradation refers to the gradual decline in quality or condition of a material due to various factors. This can occur through physical, chemical, or environmental impacts. Over time, exposure to elements such as air, moisture, or sunlight can cause materials to weaken or decompose. For instance, when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen, it can rust. Similarly, wood may decay if exposed to water, leading to structural weaknesses.

• Physical degradation: This might include wear and tear from friction or abrasion, like the soles of shoes that become thin after frequent walking.
• Chemical degradation: Involves changes due to chemical reactions, like rust formation on iron.
• Environmental factors: Sunlight can cause fading in fabrics, and moisture can lead to mold.

Understanding how materials degrade helps in selecting appropriate materials for specific uses and environments.

Longevity of Objects

The longevity of objects describes the duration that an item can remain functional or maintain its beneficial qualities over time. Some objects are designed for short-term use, while others are meant to last for years or even decades. Longevity is influenced by the material properties, usage patterns, and maintenance practices.
Some products, like disposable cutlery, are intended for one-time use, reflecting a very short lifespan. On the other hand, durable items such as furniture or vehicles are crafted to withstand years of usage. For example, a wooden table, with proper care, can last for many years, possibly even centuries, passing through generations.
Tips for enhancing longevity include:

• Regular maintenance: Cleaning, polishing, or lubricating can extend an item's life.
• Proper storage: Keeping items protected from harsh environments can prevent premature degradation.
• Appropriate usage: Using an item within its intended purpose and limits prevents excessive wear.

Wear and Tear Rates

Wear and tear rates refer to the speed at which an object undergoes degradation due to regular usage. Different objects exhibit different wear and tear rates due to variations in their material composition, usage frequency, and environmental exposure.
Consider a pair of jeans and a couch: jeans might develop holes or frays within a few months from constant use and washing, which are indicative of rapid wear. Meanwhile, a couch, although used daily, might take several years to show significant wear symptoms like sagging cushions or fading fabric. This is attributed to its more robust construction and the different kind of stress it's subjected to.
Key factors affecting wear and tear rates include:

• Material quality: Higher quality materials tend to endure longer.
• Usage frequency: More frequent use accelerates wear and tear.
• Environmental conditions: Extremes of temperature and humidity can speed up deterioration.

Knowing these rates helps consumers make informed decisions about purchasing durable goods suited to their needs.