National Engineers Month |
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Silly Semi-Solids In
everyday life we expect solids to have certain reliable characteristics
and liquids to have some very different qualities. It can be delightful
to play with materials that seem to bridge our expectations of both of
these states of matter. Welcome to the world of polymer chemistry! Materials:
Directions: 1.
Measure 2 Tablespoons of water and pour into a small bowl. 2.
Measure 2 Tablespoons of white glue and pour into the bowl of water.
Stir until well mixed. 3.
Measure 2 teaspoons of borax and mix into the same bowl. This mixture
will begin to congeal immediately. A remarkable film will form on the
surface of the water/glue solution. 4.
Use your fingers to thoroughly mix ingredients. A large "lump"
of a wet semi-solid will begin to form between your fingers. Keep mixing
ingredients until the lump feels like wet putty. A small amount of fluid
will remain in the bowl. This is safe to flush down the sink drain. 5.
Knead the putty-like material in your hands until it is completely
smooth (this may take 5-10 minutes.) 6.
Begin to experiment with the unusual properties of this substance. For
example:
7.
You can store your silly semi-solid stuff in a Ziploc* bag. 8.
Wash your hands after this activity. Thanks
to Allison Edner in Washington for providing this activity idea. |
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