What does plastic mean?
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A
Mechanical
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B
Durable
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C
Authentic
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D
Flexible
Plastic means flexible, capable of being molded, shaped, or bent without breaking, whether describing materials or biological tissues.
A) Mechanical
Mechanical denotes machine-like function, operation through physical forces rather than malleability. Plastic materials may function mechanically but aren't defined by mechanical properties.
B) Durable
Durability denotes longevity under stress, resistance to wear rather than deformability. Plastic materials vary widely in durability; flexibility defines plasticity, not endurance.
C) Authentic
Authenticity denotes genuineness, truthfulness rather than physical property. Plastic items may be authentic or counterfeit, authenticity and plasticity represent independent qualities.
D) Flexible
Flexibility precisely captures plastic's essence: capacity for deformation without fracture. Plastic (plastikos, "able to be molded") derives from Greek plassein ("to mold"), exactly matching flexible's deformability whether in polymers, clay, or adaptable behavior.
Conclusion
Plastic denotes capacity for deformation without fracture, distinct from mechanical function, durability, or authenticity. Flexible alone captures plastic's essential character: malleability enabling reshaping while maintaining structural integrity.
Topic Flashcards
Click to FlipWhat is the literal meaning of the Greek root word from which "plastic" is derived?
To mold or to shape.
In biology, what term describes the ability of cells or tissues to change their form or function?
Plasticity.
True or False: In art, a "plastic" medium is one that is rigid and cannot be altered once set.
False. It refers to a malleable medium like clay.
What term in surgery refers to procedures that reshape or reconstruct parts of the body?
Plastic surgery.
Beyond materials, what does it mean if a person's plans are described as "plastic"?
The plans are flexible and can be easily changed or adapted.