What property do elastomers exhibit when pressure is applied?

Elastomers exhibit a unique property known as elasticity, which allows them to be distorted when pressure is applied but return to their original shape once the pressure is removed. This characteristic is due to the molecular structure of elastomers, which consists of long, flexible polymer chains that can stretch and compress without permanent deformation.

When external force or pressure is applied, these polymer chains slide past each other, allowing the material to change shape. However, once the force is released, the chains return to their original arrangement, resulting in the return to the initial shape. This ability to undergo considerable deformation while maintaining structural integrity is what makes elastomers valuable in applications requiring flexibility and resilience, such as seals, gaskets, and various cushioning materials.

The other potential properties listed do not accurately describe the behavior of elastomers under pressure. They don’t become rigid, melt, or break permanently under typical conditions. Instead, their resilience and ability to return to their original shape are essential features that define their use in various industrial applications.