hardness scale
nounUK /ˈhɑːdnəs skeɪl/
US /ˈhɑːrdnəs skeɪl/
A hardness scale is a list that shows how hard different things are.
The Mohs hardness scale ranks talc as the softest mineral and diamond as the hardest.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A numbered system used by scientists to compare how easily materials can be scratched.
Geologists use the hardness scale to identify unknown rocks in the field.
3. Any ordered series that ranks materials from soft to hard.
The engineer checked the hardness scale before choosing a metal for the drill bit.
4. A standard reference used in manufacturing to test material strength.
Each batch of steel was measured against the hardness scale before shipping.