What condition makes stressed rubber more susceptible to damage?

When rubber is subjected to stress, it undergoes a process known as deformation. Ozone exposure is particularly harmful because it can cause the rubber to become brittle and crack. During this interaction, ozone molecules penetrate the rubber material, which alters its chemical structure and weakens its integrity. The combination of stress and ozone results in a heightened vulnerability to environmental factors, making the rubber prone to damage.

High temperatures can also affect the properties of rubber, but they primarily lead to thermal degradation rather than specifically increasing susceptibility to damage under stress. Moisture might contribute to certain forms of degradation, especially in composites or layered materials, but it does not directly influence the stress response in rubber. Corrosion primarily pertains to metals and does not directly affect rubber. Thus, the unique relationship between ozone exposure and stressed rubber enhances its likelihood of significant damage, making this the correct choice.