Materials science – name for materials with identical elastic properties in all directions In mechanics of materials, what do we call a material that exhibits the same elastic properties (such as modulus and Poisson’s ratio) in every direction?

Introduction / Context:
Describing material symmetry is essential for selecting correct constitutive models. Engineers must distinguish isotropy, orthotropy, and anisotropy because directional dependence affects stress–strain predictions and design.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Elastic range behavior only.
• No microstructural texture that would cause directional properties.
• Small deformations (linear elasticity context).

Concept / Approach:
An isotropic material has elastic properties that are identical in all directions. A homogeneous material has properties uniform from point to point (spatially), but they can still be direction-dependent. Brittle and hard are failure/strength descriptors, not symmetry classes. Orthotropic has three mutually orthogonal planes of material symmetry (direction-dependent).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map definition: same elastic response for any loading direction → isotropic.Reject others based on meaning (not symmetry or not direction-independent).

Verification / Alternative check:
Common isotropic examples: fully annealed metals, glass, and many polymers (approximately). Wood and composites are orthotropic/anisotropic.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Brittle/Hard: describe failure or hardness, not elastic isotropy.
• Homogeneous: uniform in space, not necessarily same in all directions.
• Orthotropic: direction-dependent along principal directions.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing homogeneity with isotropy; a material can be homogeneous yet anisotropic.

Final Answer:
Isotropic