Eduqas GCSE Design and Technology key terms

The turning effect of a force about a pivot, calculated as force multiplied by the perpendicular distance from the pivot to the force’s line of action.

Switch operation that lasts only while the switch is held; releasing it restores its normal position.

A small molecule that can join with other monomer molecules to form a polymer.

A timing circuit with one stable output state that produces a single timed pulse when triggered.

A substance used with some dyes to help the colour bind to the textile fibres.

A shaped tool that gives softened material its required form.

A length of timber machined to a repeated shaped profile, used for features such as skirting or decorative trim.

An electronic circuit that generates pulses by switching between output states; monostable and astable circuits are forms of multivibrator.

A logic gate that produces the opposite output to an AND gate: its output is LOW only when all its inputs are HIGH.

The directional surface of a pile fabric, such as velvet, which can appear a different shade when viewed in opposite directions.

A fibre obtained from a plant or animal, such as cotton or wool.

A polymer occurring in nature, such as cellulose or the proteins in wool and silk.

Wood obtained from trees and used as a material for making products.

Arranging component outlines closely together on stock material to reduce waste.

A heat-resistant synthetic fibre used in protective textiles for situations with a high risk of fire exposure.

The stated size used to describe stock, which may differ from its actual finished dimensions after processing.

A metal or alloy that does not contain iron as a constituent.

An energy source available in finite amounts that cannot be replaced on a human timescale.

Fabric made directly from fibres held together rather than from woven or knitted yarns.

A fabric made directly from fibres bonded or entangled together, rather than from woven or knitted yarns.

A one-input logic gate that reverses the input state: LOW becomes HIGH and HIGH becomes LOW.

An internally threaded fastener that fits onto a matching bolt or machine screw.

A requirement that can be checked using evidence rather than personal opinion.

A product becoming no longer desired, so that it stops selling or sells only at a discounted price.

A printing process in which an inked image transfers from a plate to a blanket cylinder and then onto paper or card.

The relationship $V = IR$ between voltage, current and resistance for an ohmic component under constant physical conditions, including temperature.

An oil-based treatment that penetrates the timber surface, enhances its grain and offers some water resistance.

A surface treatment using heat and oil, such as linseed oil, to blacken steel and produce a matt, textured finish. The oil also provides a barrier against oxygen and water, helping to prevent rusting.