What are the major material groups? List the parameters to be considered when selecting a construction material. What are the mechanical properties that define a material? How does a tensile stress...

What are the major material groups? List the parameters to be considered when selecting a construction material. What are the mechanical properties that define a material? How does a tensile stress differ from a compressive stress? What are the major thermal factors to consider when selecting a material? Which of the four major material groups has the lowest thermal conductivity?