Hardness is a measure of the resistance to localized plastic deformation induced by either mechanical indentation or abrasion.

What does hardness of a material mean?

Hardness is the resistance of a material to localised plastic deformation. ... Hardness can be assessed by a number of techniques including indentation, scratch and rebound hardness measurements.

What does hardness mean in science?

hardness, resistance of a mineral to scratching, described relative to a standard such as the Mohs hardness scale. Hardness is an important diagnostic property in mineral identification.