Which of the following is an advantage of composites over traditional materials?

Composites are known for their unique combination of properties that often surpass those of traditional materials like metals and wood. One of the primary advantages is their higher specific strength, which refers to the strength of a material in relation to its density. This means that composites can provide significant load-bearing capability while remaining lightweight.

The advantage of higher specific strength becomes particularly impactful in applications where reducing overall weight is critical, such as in aerospace, automotive, and marine industries. By using materials that are strong yet light, engineers can create more efficient designs, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance performance.

In contrast, lower production costs and greater structural stiffness are not universally true for composites. While some composite materials can be produced at lower costs, many require complex manufacturing processes that can drive costs up. Structural stiffness depends on the specific type of composite and its construction, and it may not necessarily outperform traditional materials in every application. Additionally, the claim about energy consumption during production runs counter to the benefits of composites since many composite manufacturing processes can be energy-intensive.