Flexibility

Term: FlexibilityDefinition: The ability of a material to bend without breaking, a key property of asbestos fibers.Phonetic Pronunciation: (FLEX-ih-BIL-ih-tee)Origin: The term 'flexibility' derives from the Latin word 'flexibilis,' meaning 'that may be bent,' which is formed from 'flectere,' meaning 'to bend.' This reflects the physical characteristic of materials that can be manipulated without fracturing.Significance in Asbestos Context: Flexibility is a crucial property of asbestos, allowing it to be woven into fabrics and incorporated into various products. This characteristic made asbestos highly valued in industrial applications but also contributed to its widespread use and subsequent health hazards.Example Sentence: The flexibility of asbestos fibers allowed them to be used in the insulation of buildings, contributing to the exposure of many workers.Related Terms: Tensile strength, durability, elasticity, malleabilityNotes: - Flexibility should not be confused with elasticity, which refers to the ability to return to original shape after bending. - The flexibility of asbestos can make it difficult to remove from older buildings without specialized equipment.