Contextualization

Polymers are chemical substances composed of large chains of repeated molecules. These substances are present in all aspects of modern life, from plastic packaging, car parts, to clothing fibers and DNA. The study of polymerization, the process by which monomers combine to form a polymer, is fundamental to understanding many industrial and biological processes.

Polymers can be divided into two main categories: natural, such as cellulose and proteins; and synthetic, for example polyethylene and polystyrene. Each category has its own characteristics and specific applications, and it is crucial to understand their properties to assess the suitability of their use in various applications.

The study of polymers, therefore, is a combination of chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering. In chemistry, the structure of polymeric molecules and how they interact with other substances are of interest. In physics, the mechanical properties of polymers and how they respond to different conditions are important. In biology, the role of natural polymers in vital processes is studied. And in engineering, the challenge is how to manipulate the properties of polymers to create materials with specific characteristics.

Polymers play a significant role in our daily lives and in the global economy. At home, we find polymers in clothing, food, furniture, and electronics. In industries, they are used in all sectors, from automotive and aerospace manufacturing to food and health. Furthermore, polymers have the potential to address many of the environmental challenges we currently face, such as the production of biodegradable plastics and the capture of carbon dioxide.

To begin exploring this fascinating world of polymers, I recommend the following readings:

1. Polymers: what they are, properties, and applications
2. The chemistry of polymers
3. Natural and synthetic polymers

Practical Activity

Activity Title: "Create Your Own Slime: A Study on the Properties of Polymers"

Project Objective:

To understand the polymerization process and analyze the influence of adding different substances on the behavior of a polymer.

Detailed Project Description:

In this activity, groups will be motivated to study the science behind "Slime," a popular viscous and malleable polymer among young people. In addition to understanding how polymers are formed through practice, students will explore how the behavior of this polymer can be altered by adding other substances and identify the most relevant properties that these changes confer to the Slime.

Required Materials:

• White glue (500 ml)
• Borax (10 g)
• Water (500 ml)
• Food coloring
• Plastic containers for the mixtures
• Popsicle sticks to stir the mixture
• Various materials for adding to the Slime (glitter, styrofoam balls, oil, etc.)

Step by Step:

1. Mix 250 ml of white glue with 250 ml of water in a container. Add food coloring of your choice.
2. In another container, dissolve 10 g of Borax in 250 ml of water.
3. Gradually add the Borax solution to the initial mixture, stirring constantly. There's your Slime!
4. Now, the fun part: try adding different materials to the Slime and observe the changes in the polymer's behavior. Does glitter make it more resistant? Do styrofoam balls alter its viscosity? Explore!

Remember: this is a project that should be carried out in groups of 3 to 5 students and should require five to ten hours of work per participant. The deadline for submission is one month from the project start date.

Project Deliverables and Document Writing:

After completing the practical activity, each group must compile their findings into a detailed report. This report should include the following topics:

• Introduction: Provide the reader with an overview of the report's topic, explain what polymers are, and contextualize their importance. Make a connection with the project's objective and the practices carried out.

• Development: Explain how polymerization occurs, exemplifying with the process that occurred in creating the Slime. Then, discuss the methodology used: the preparation of Slime, the substances added, and the observed changes. Present and discuss the results obtained in these experiments.

• Conclusion: Reflect on the results obtained, the teamwork process, and what was learned during the project. Consider applications or future considerations that could be made based on your study.

• Bibliography: Record all sources consulted during the project, such as books, websites, and videos.

Emphasize in your report how the practical work allowed you to consolidate and expand the theoretical concepts learned. Make the most of every moment of the project, from group discussions to conducting experiments, as an enriching and diverse learning opportunity.