Crystals and Polymers
| Science Course | |
|---|---|
| Course Code | CPOL |
| Year Opened | 2004 |
| Sites Offered | CGV, LOS |
| Previously Offered | ALE, BRI, EST, LAJ, SRF |
Course Description
From the CTY Course Catalog (2004):
Why do some plastic containers melt in the microwave while others don’t? What makes Silly Putty stretchy? How are packing peanuts made? Chemicals are key to answering these questions, and in this course, you’ll examine how their structure can determine the properties and behaviors of gems and polymers. Starting with the most basic building blocks, atoms, you’ll learn about ions and compounds, and grow crystals like salt and rock candy in the lab, marveling at how small changes in structures of gems can cause dramatic changes in shapes and colors. You’ll also synthesize slime or Silly Putty to investigate molecular chain length and cross-linking, isolate strawberry DNA and denature proteins to learn about biopolymers, and experiment with superabsorbent molecules like those used in diapers to research how different plastics are synthesized. By the end of the course, you’ll understand the chemistry behind many materials we use every day.
