Why should environmental factors be considered when selecting aircraft materials?

Considering environmental factors when selecting aircraft materials is crucial because these factors can significantly contribute to corrosion and material degradation. For instance, exposure to elements such as moisture, temperature variations, salt, and pollutants in the atmosphere can impact the integrity and longevity of materials. Corrosion can weaken structural components over time, potentially leading to catastrophic failures if not properly addressed. Thus, selecting materials that are resistant to these environmental challenges is essential for ensuring safety and durability in aircraft design.

Other factors, like structural visibility or weight, while relevant to material selection, do not directly capture the essence of how environmental conditions affect material performance. Similarly, while design features are important, they are more about the aesthetics and functionality of the aircraft rather than the inherent physical properties of the materials used, which are profoundly influenced by environmental exposure.