What term describes the ability of a material to resist indentations, scratches, and abrasions?

The term that describes the ability of a material to resist indentations, scratches, and abrasions is hardness. Hardness is a measure of a material's resistance to localized plastic deformation, which is typically manifested in the form of indentation. Materials with high hardness values are able to withstand wear and damage from other materials because they do not deform easily under stress. This property is crucial in applications where surfaces may come into contact with abrasives or where performance integrity is essential.

For instance, metal tools, cutting implements, and surface coatings often need to possess high hardness to ensure longevity and effectiveness during use. In contrast, while durability refers to the ability to withstand wear and tear over time, it encompasses a broader range of factors and is not limited solely to resistance against scratches and abrasions. Toughness denotes a material's ability to absorb energy and deform plastically without breaking, which is different from hardness. Strength indicates how much load a material can withstand without failure, but it does not specifically address surface resistance to indentation or surface damage.