Thermoplastics can be characterized by which of the following?

Thermoplastics are a type of polymer that can be heated to a pliable state and then cooled to form a solid structure. The defining characteristic of thermoplastics is their ability to be melted and reformed multiple times without undergoing any significant chemical change. This property makes thermoplastics versatile for various applications, as they can be reshaped and reused effectively.

When heated, thermoplastics soften and can be molded into a variety of shapes, which is essential for processes such as injection molding and extrusion. Upon cooling, they regain their solid form. This cycle of heating and cooling can be repeated many times, which is a key feature that distinguishes thermoplastics from thermosets, which cannot be remolded after they are set.

In contrast, other options inaccurately describe characteristics of thermoplastics: they do not become brittle when heated; instead, they become more flexible. Although some thermoplastics can exhibit a degree of electrical conductivity, it is not a defining characteristic of the entire category. Furthermore, thermoplastics do not typically possess a very rigid structure; they can vary widely in flexibility and rigidity depending on their formulation and the types of additives used.