Malleability意思

Malleability is a physical property of certain materials that refers to their ability to be shaped or molded without breaking. This property is particularly important in metals, which are often described as "malleable." When a metal is malleable, it can be hammered, rolled, or pressed into thin sheets without losing its structural integrity.

The malleability of a material is influenced by its crystal structure and the strength of the bonds between its atoms. Metals tend to have a close-packed crystal structure and strong metallic bonds, which allow them to deform plastically under pressure without coming apart.

In contrast, materials that are not malleable, such as glass or most plastics, will shatter or deform permanently when subjected to the same types of forces.

Malleability is a key factor in metalworking processes, such as smithing, where blacksmiths use hammers to shape metal into various forms, and in manufacturing, where metal sheets are rolled into cans or other containers.