Why is reinforced concrete an example of a composite material?

Reinforced concrete is considered a composite material because it combines two distinct materials—concrete and steel reinforcement—each with different properties to achieve superior performance. Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension, while steel has high tensile strength. By embedding steel bars or meshes within the concrete, the composite effectively utilizes the strengths of both materials, resulting in a structure that can withstand various loads and stresses more efficiently than either material alone. This synergy enhances the overall durability and resilience of the construction.