Composite vs. Aggregate: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 2, 2023
Composite is a material made from two or more different materials, while aggregate is a whole formed by combining several elements.
Key Differences
A composite is a material made from two or more different types of materials that are combined to create a new material with unique properties. An aggregate, on the other hand, is a whole that is formed by combining several different elements. In a composite, the individual components retain their identity, while in an aggregate, the individual elements may lose their identity.
A composite is typically stronger and more durable than the individual materials from which it is made. An aggregate, on the other hand, may or may not be stronger than the individual elements that make it up. For example, concrete is a composite material made from cement, water, and aggregate (usually sand and gravel). The aggregate in concrete helps to give the material its strength.
In a composite, the individual components are usually bound together in some way, such as with an adhesive. In an aggregate, the individual elements are typically not bound together, but are instead held together by their collective weight and the pressure of the surrounding material. For example, gravel is an aggregate that is made up of individual stones that are held together by their collective weight.
Composites can be used in a wide range of applications, such as in the construction of buildings, bridges, and airplanes. Aggregates, on the other hand, are typically used in construction, such as in the making of concrete or asphalt. Composites are often more expensive to produce than aggregates, but they can offer superior performance in certain applications.
Comparison Chart
Made from two or more materials
Materials are combined to create new properties
Formed by combining elements
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Individual components retain identity
Stronger and more durable than individual materials
May or may not be stronger
Typically bound together
Used in a range of applications
Typically not bound together
Often more expensive to produce
Offers superior performance in certain applications
Used in construction
Composite and Aggregate Definitions
Composite
Composite can refer to a picture or image made up of different elements.
The artist created a composite image from several photographs.
Aggregate
Aggregate can also refer to a material, such as gravel, that is used in construction.
The contractor used aggregate to make the concrete.
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Composite
Composite can also refer to a combination or mixture of different things.
The team had a composite of skills that made them successful.
Aggregate
Aggregate refers to a whole formed by combining several elements.
The aggregate of the test scores was used to calculate the class average.
Composite
Composite can refer to a type of security that represents a claim on a portfolio of assets.
The investor purchased a composite security that included both stocks and bonds.
Aggregate
Aggregate can refer to the act of gathering or collecting things together.
The researcher aggregated data from multiple sources.
Composite
Composite can also refer to a type of dental filling made from a mixture of materials.
The dentist used a composite filling to repair the tooth.
Aggregate
Aggregate can refer to a sum or total amount.
The aggregate cost of the project was over budget.
Composite
Composite refers to a material made from two or more different materials.
The composite material was stronger than each of its individual components.
Aggregate
Aggregate can also refer to a group or collection of individuals.
The aggregate of people at the concert made for a large crowd.
Composite
Made up of distinct components; compound.
Aggregate
Constituting or amounting to a whole; total
Aggregate sales in that market.
Composite
Made by combining two or more existing things, such as photographs.
Aggregate
(Botany) Crowded or massed into a dense cluster.
FAQs
What is a composite?
A composite is a material made from two or more different materials that are combined to create a new material with unique properties.
What is an aggregate?
An aggregate is a whole formed by combining several different elements.
Can an aggregate be stronger than its individual elements?
An aggregate may or may not be stronger than the individual elements that make it up.
How does a composite differ from an aggregate?
In a composite, the individual components retain their identity, while in an aggregate, the individual elements may lose their identity.
Can a composite be stronger than its individual components?
Yes, a composite is typically stronger and more durable than the individual materials from which it is made.
What are some applications of composites?
Composites can be used in a wide range of applications, such as in the construction of buildings, bridges, and airplanes.
Are composites typically bound together?
Yes, in a composite, the individual components are usually bound together in some way.
What is another meaning of composite?
Composite can also refer to a combination or mixture of different things.
Can aggregate refer to a sum or total amount?
Yes, aggregate can refer to a sum or total amount.
Are aggregates typically bound together?
No, in an aggregate, the individual elements are typically not bound together.
Are composites more expensive to produce than aggregates?
Yes, composites are often more expensive to produce than aggregates.
Can aggregate refer to the act of gathering or collecting things together?
Yes, aggregate can refer to the act of gathering or collecting things together.
What are some applications of aggregates?
Aggregates are typically used in construction, such as in the making of concrete or asphalt.
Can a composite offer superior performance in certain applications?
Yes, composites can offer superior performance in certain applications.
What is another meaning of aggregate?
Aggregate can also refer to a material, such as gravel, that is used in construction.
Can aggregate refer to a group or collection of individuals?
Yes, aggregate can refer to a group or collection of individuals.
Can composite refer to a picture or image made up of different elements?
Yes, composite can refer to a picture or image made up of different elements.
Can composite refer to a type of dental filling?
Yes, composite can refer to a type of dental filling made from a mixture of materials.
Can composite refer to a type of security?
Yes, composite can refer to a type of security that represents a claim on a portfolio of assets.
What is another example of a composite?
Another example of a composite is concrete, which is made from cement, water, and aggregate.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
