Which of the following is a common characteristic of ceramics?

Ceramics are known for their exceptional high thermal resistance, which is a key characteristic that makes them valuable in various applications. This property allows ceramics to withstand elevated temperatures without deforming or losing their structural integrity, making them ideal for use in environments exposed to high heat, such as in the aerospace industry, furnace linings, and cooking utensils.

The ability of ceramics to insulate against heat is largely due to their strong ionic and covalent bonding, which results in a rigid structure that can remain stable under thermal stress. This thermal stability is crucial in applications where materials need to maintain their performance at elevated temperatures.

In contrast to this option, ceramics generally do not exhibit high elasticity, high electrical conductivity, or high tensile strength compared to metals or polymers. While some advanced ceramics may have specific features like increased toughness or strength, they typically do not compete with the elasticity and conductivity of metals. Thus, the high thermal resistance is indeed a defining attribute of ceramic materials.