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Which property describes resistance to indentation, scratching, and local plastic deformation?

Hardness describes resistance to localized surface deformation.

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  1. Hardness ✔
  2. Stiffness
  3. Toughness

Why: Hardness tests press an indenter into a surface and judge how strongly the material resists. Hardness is useful, but it is not the same property as stiffness or toughness.

Huh, didn't know that: Brinell, Rockwell, and Vickers tests use different indenters or measurement methods.

The dad joke
The indenter made an impression, professionally speaking.
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References

Answer: Hardness. Hardness tests press an indenter into a surface and judge how strongly the material resists. Hardness is useful, but it is not the same property as stiffness or toughness.

  1. DOE Fundamentals Handbook: Material Science www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2026-04/DOE-HDBK-1017-93_VOL1.pdf
    Hardness is the property of a material that enables it to resist plastic deformation, penetration, indentation, and scratching.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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