Skip to content
    Design and Technology A-Level

    Toughness

    What Toughness means in Design and Technology A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.

    Definitions of Toughness

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Toughness in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: Pearson Edexcel

    The ability of a material to absorb energy and resist fracturing when subjected to a sudden impact.
    Pearson Edexcel · Part 1: Identifying and outlining possibilities for design (study guide)
    The ability of a material to absorb energy and resist fracturing or shattering under impact.
    Pearson Edexcel · Topic 8: Features of manufacturing industries (study guide)
    The ability of a material to absorb impact energy and resist fracturing or shattering.
    Pearson Edexcel · Topic 2: Performance characteristics of materials (study guide), Topic 3: Processes and techniques (study guide)
    The ability of a material to absorb energy and deform plastically before fracturing.
    Pearson Edexcel · Topic 9: Designing for maintenance and the cleaner environment (study guide)
    The ability of a material to absorb impact energy without fracturing or shattering.
    Pearson Edexcel · Topic 4: Digital technologies (study guide)
    The ability of a material to absorb impact force and resist fracturing.
    Pearson Edexcel · Topic 5: Factors influencing the development of products (study guide)

    Topics that use Toughness

    Related terms

    Using Toughness in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Design and Technology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Design and Technology A-Level terms