What characteristic is important when considering the material for a stringer?

When selecting a material for a stringer, the weight and strength properties are crucial because stringers play a key role in providing structural support and integrity to a composite structure. Stringers are typically used in marine applications to reinforce hulls and decks, where both the weight of the material and its ability to withstand loads and stresses are paramount.

Choosing a material that is lightweight yet strong helps in maintaining the overall performance and efficiency of the vessel, allowing it to achieve better speed and fuel efficiency while ensuring stability and durability. A heavy material could negatively impact the vessel's performance, making it difficult to maneuver and affecting buoyancy.

While decorative potential might be a consideration in other aspects of design, it does not influence the structural performance required from a stringer. Cost is always a factor in material selection, but prioritizing cost alone could lead to the use of inferior materials that compromise the safety and effectiveness of the composite structure. Lastly, the ability to float is not a relevant characteristic for stringers, as they are typically embedded within the construction of a boat rather than being subjected to buoyancy in isolation.