Materials science is the study of materials from which products are made. These materials fall into three main categories: metals, ceramics, and polymers. Materials scientists study how the microscopic structure of a material determines the material’s properties (characteristics).
The basic types of materials differ in the ways that the atoms are bonded together. For example, the atoms in a metal share a “sea” of negatively-charged electrons, which can easily flow from atom to atom. This makes many metals good conductors of electric current. The bonds in a ceramic material, on the other hand, tend to hold electrons close to individual atoms. Thus, ceramics are often good insulators of electric current. Polymers make up plastic materials and are typically good insulators. They consist of long chains of molecules called monomers. The variety of monomers and the ability to connect them in different arrangements gives plastics a wide diversity of properties.
Other important materials include semiconductors, composite materials, and glasses. Semiconductors, such as silicon, conduct some electric charge, but not as well as do metals. Composite materials combine features of different materials. Glasses are formed when certain ceramics, especially ones containing silicon, are melted and quickly cooled.
Career opportunities in materials science exist in virtually all branches of science and engineering, from building bridges to manufacturing electronics. Some materials scientists specialize in a certain material, such as metal. Others are generalists who help find the best materials for a given application. Still other materials scientists work to develop new materials.
Students who wish to pursue a career in materials science should take courses in chemistry, engineering, physics, math, and computer science. Some colleges and universities offer specific programs in materials science. At other schools, materials scientists obtain degrees in chemistry, engineering, or physics. Many research jobs in materials science require a Ph.D. degree.
See also Materials .
