Which option best describes the concept of material shaping?

The concept of material shaping primarily involves the process of molding and forming materials into specific, desired shapes. This process is central to engineering and manufacturing, as it directly influences the functionality, aesthetics, and performance of a product. Techniques such as casting, forging, machining, and 3D printing are all forms of material shaping that allow engineers to transform raw materials into practical components or finished products.

In contrast, recycling old products focuses on reprocessing materials rather than shaping new ones, while creating marketing strategies pertains to the business aspect of product development and is not related to the physical manipulation of materials. Researching consumer preferences, although important for design considerations, does not directly involve the shaping of materials. Therefore, the response that best captures the essence of material shaping is the one that emphasizes molding and forming materials into desired shapes.