Leather is a material derived from the treated hide of various vertebrates. Scientifically, the process involves stabilizing the collagen fibers within the raw skin structure through chemical modification, a procedure known as tanning. This process fundamentally alters the protein matrix, enhancing the material's durability, flexibility, and resistance to decay. By treating the collagen, the inherent biological structure is transformed into a durable, processed material used widely in various technological applications, including goods that require high structural integrity and longevity.