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Introduction to the New Chain Gang
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In this activity, learners use pop-beads to understand the characteristics and properties of polymer chains.
Bounce vs. Thud Balls
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Learners compare the properties of two balls that appear identical. One ball bounces, while the other ball "thuds." The “bounce” ball is made of the polymer polybutadiene (-C4H4-).
That's the Way the Ball Bounces: Level 1
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In this activity, learners prepare four polymer elastomers and then compare their physical properties, such as texture, color, size, and bounce height.
That's the Way the Ball Bounces: Level 2
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In this activity, learners prepare four polymer elastomers and then compare their physical properties, such as texture, color, volume, density, and bounce height.
Plastics the Second Time Around
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In this activity, learners test and compare the physical properties of thermoplastic polymers. Learners compare different plastics based on their color, degree of transparency, texture, and density.
Sink or Swim?
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In this activity, learners identify different plastics in a mystery bag. Learners discover that plastics are classified #1 through #7.
Crunch and Munch Lab
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In this activity, learners use three types of cheesy snacks--cheese balls, cheese puffs, and Cheetos--to learn about polymers.
Exploring the Nanoworld with LEGO Bricks: Structure-Property Relationships at the Nanoscale
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In this activity (pages 32-41), learners learn how the atomic and molecular arrangement of matter are related to physical properties.
Shrinkers
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Visitors use heat to shrink samples of polystyrene. They compare samples from containers that were shaped in different ways during manufacturing.
Secret Messages
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In this activity, learners use Teflon (PTFE) tape to write secret messages.
Flubber
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Learners experiment with a piece of Silly Putty® by stretching, bouncing, and snapping it. They then create flubber, a similar substance, by mixing diluted glue and a solution of sodium borate.
Jelly Beads
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Learners add drops of alginate solution to a solution of calcium chloride. The alginate does not mix with the calcium chloride, but forms soft gel beads.
That's the Way the Ball Bounces: Level 3
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In this activity, learners prepare four polymer elastomers and then compare their physical properties, such as texture, color, volume, density, and bounce height.