Hardness

Hardness refers to a material's ability to resist deformation, scratching, or denting when subjected to external forces. In everyday terms, a hard object is one that can withstand scratches or dents better than a softer one. For example, a steel nail is harder than a rubber band, meaning it's less likely to be scratched or deformed. Hardness is an important property in choosing materials for tools, construction, and manufacturing, as it influences durability and wear resistance. It is typically measured using standardized tests, which help compare the hardness of different materials accurately.