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hierarchical structure
Definition: The arrangement of materials into levels with distinct properties and sizes.
Examples: A composite material like fiberglass consists of fibers within a polymer matrix, with the fibers having significantly different strength properties than the matrix.
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AI Generated Definition
Created: 2025/10/20
Last Updated: 2025/10/20
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Mingwei Li at 10/20/2025 4:34pm
Not clear to me how important the repeating of units play a role in hierarchical structure
Xintong Zhao at 10/20/2025 4:40pm
Refined version suggested by ChatGPT: Definition: A structural organization in which a material is arranged across multiple length scales (e.g., atomic, nano, micro, macro), with each level contributing distinct structural or functional properties. These hierarchies often lead to enhanced or synergistic performance characteristics. Example: Bone exhibits a hierarchical structure: from collagen molecules (nanometer scale), to mineralized fibrils (microscale), to trabecular and cortical architectures (macroscale), each level contributes to its strength and toughness.