The v-notch in the Charpy impact test is essential for assessing ductility and toughness, providing a more accurate representation of a material's structural integrity than surface-level hardness tests. The notch serves as a predetermined point for failure, where stress crack propagation initiates when the hammer strikes. This design allows for predictable and repeatable fractures at the weakest point of the sample. The test is particularly relevant for heat-treated metals, which require a more comprehensive evaluation of their properties. Overall, the v-notch is crucial for understanding material behavior under stress.