Technology and Engineering Literacy Grade 8 Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of a prototype in the engineering design process?

Answer: To test and evaluate a design before full production

A prototype is a working model used to test a design concept and identify problems before committing to full-scale production.

Which step in the engineering design process comes immediately after identifying the problem?

Answer: Researching and brainstorming solutions

After identifying the problem, engineers research existing solutions and brainstorm possible approaches before building anything.

A student is designing a bridge and must keep the cost under $50 and use only cardboard and tape. What do the cost limit and material restrictions represent?

Answer: Engineering constraints

Constraints are the limitations placed on a design, such as cost, materials, time, and size.

What does 'iterative design' mean in engineering?

Answer: Repeating the design-test-improve cycle multiple times

Iterative design involves repeatedly testing and improving a design based on feedback and results until it meets all criteria.

Which energy conversion happens inside a solar panel?

Answer: Light energy to electrical energy

Solar panels (photovoltaic cells) convert sunlight (light/radiant energy) directly into electrical energy.

Which of the following best describes a technological system?

Answer: A set of interrelated components that work together to achieve a goal

A system is a set of interrelated components—inputs, processes, outputs, and feedback—that work together toward a common goal.

A student is building a model car and tests it, finds it rolls too slowly, then modifies the wheels and tests again. Which design process is the student demonstrating?

Answer: Iterative design

Iterative design involves building, testing, analyzing results, and making improvements in repeated cycles.