Answer: Option (a) is the correct answer.
Explanation:
- A brittle substance is defined as the substance that easily breaks down when a stress is applies or a crack occurred on it.
For example, a concrete material broke down because a crack forms on it. This shows that this concrete material is brittle in nature.
- When we stretch or apply force on a substance then it deforms but as this applied force is removed then the substance attains its original shape. This property of the substance to return to its original shape is known as elasticity.
For example, a rubber band is elastic in nature.
- Malleability is defined as the ability of a substance to be drawn into thin sheets.
For example, metals are malleable in nature.
- Toughness is the ability of a substance which does not break down easily. A lot of force is required to break a tough substance.
Thus, we can conclude that if a material, such as concrete, can withstand a large applied weight but gives away (ruptures) quickly when a crack forms, then it is considered brittle.
