Which of the following is a characteristic property of ceramics?

High hardness and wear resistance are fundamental characteristics of ceramics that set them apart from many other materials. Ceramics are typically composed of inorganic, non-metallic materials which, when processed at high temperatures, exhibit remarkable strength and durability. This high hardness makes ceramics excellent for applications that require resistance to deformation and wear, such as in cutting tools, wear-resistant coatings, and structural components in various industries.

The unique microstructure of ceramic materials contributes to their ability to endure extreme conditions, making them suitable for high-performance applications. This characteristic is crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics where material failure due to wear could lead to significant operational issues.