What is a prototype?

A prototype is a tangible model that is created using the actual materials intended for the final product. It allows designers and engineers to test functionality, usability, and feasibility before full-scale production begins. By constructing a prototype, one can evaluate aspects like design, form, and performance, helping to identify potential issues early in the development process. This hands-on approach provides a more accurate representation of how the end product will look and perform, as opposed to just sketches, blueprints, or conceptual designs.

The other options do not capture the essence of a prototype accurately. For instance, a basic sketch only represents an idea without any physical attributes, while a limited version of the final product implies that it may not reflect the actual form or materials used. A blueprint serves as a plan rather than a model that can be tested or interacted with. In summary, the correct definition focuses on the physical aspect and applicability of a prototype in the development process.