Ohio State University
Ohio State University: Dna Replication
This site from Ohio State University provides a good outline of the process of replicating DNA. The outline contains a numerous amount of embedded vocabulary links, illustrations of the process and also review questions and solutions.
Famous Scientists
Famous Scientists: Stephanie Kwolek
Learn about the life and work of Stephanie Kwolekbest, known for inventing the first of a family of synthetic fibers of exceptional strength and stiffness.
TeachEngineering
Teach Engineering: Silly Semi Solids
Groups of students make a polymer out of household items. They then experiment with the polymer to determine its various properties.
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Chemistry: Materials
[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] Discussion of the design and production of new materials such as polymers and liquid crystals.
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Physical Science: Carbon Monomers and Polymers
[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] Difference between a monomer and polymer and examples of natural and synthetic carbon polymers.
Other
Libros Vivos: Los Plasticos
Plastics are obtained by polymerization of compounds derived from petroleum and natural gas. Learn about the different plastics and about the different process of fabrication in this site. You will find a lot of illustrations and...
McREL International
Mc Rel: Glue Polymer (Whelmer #15 Learning Activity)
An easy to do activity that investigates the basic principles behind chemical bonding. The activity is written in lesson plan format that meets NSES standards.
Other
Doyle Sailmakers: Fiber Guide
Descriptions of the major fibers used in sail making. A decent introduction to the different fibers.
Maryland Science Center
Maryland Science Center: Bouncy Balls [Pdf]
Use simple materials in a chemical reaction to create a bouncy ball, and learn about long-chain polymers.
Maryland Science Center
Maryland Science Center: Milk Plastic [Pdf]
A simple experiment to create a chemical reaction between milk and vinegar, with the product being a type of plastic.
Maryland Science Center
Maryland Science Center: Balloon Kabob [Pdf]
Learn how to push a skewer through a balloon without actually popping it, and why this is possible.
Frostburg State University
General Chemistry Online: Glossary: Polymer Chemistry
A glossary of terminology surrounding polymer chemistry. Good site for vocabulary building or reinforcement.
Science is Fun
Science Is Fun: Gluep Solid or Liquid?
In this experiment, students create a polymer substance called Gluep, then investigate its properties. Includes a detailed explanation of how the polymer molecules bond together to form the plastic.
Science Buddies
Science Buddies: Turn Milk Into Plastic!
In this hands-on lesson plan, students will conduct a simple milk-transforming experiment to explore how plastics can be derived from a natural resource such as milk.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: Elasticity and Kinetics of Vulcanized Rubber
Read a passage about the elasticity and kinetics of vulcanized rubber and answer the follow-up questions.
University of Washington
University of Washington: The World of Polyethylene
This website explains how polyethylene is produced in both scientific terms and in easier-to-understand terms.
Science and Mathematics Initiative for Learning Enhancement (SMILE)
Smile: Polymers: The Discovery
A simple lab activity which introduces the field of polymer chemistry. Includes the use of polystyrene in a neat reaction.
Wikimedia
Wikipedia: Amorphous Solid
This page from the Wikipedia encyclopedia on amorphous solids contains information on examples of, the difference between amorphous solids and crystalline solid, and the transition between a very viscous liquid and an amorphous solid.
Math Science Nucleus
Math/science Nucleus: Polymer Storybook
This animation discusses polymers and the properties of polymers in a storybook format. The story covers polymers both plastic and natural, and provides interesting information.
Other
Stanford University: Cellulose Nitrate
Background and chemical information on the precursor chemical to celluloid.
Other
Prince Edward Island: Behind the Eight Ball
Interesting historical article about the driving force behind the invention of celluloid.
Other
Cha, Inc.: Nylon Life Cycle
An in-depth presentation of the history of nylon chemistry. Brings you from the late twenties to the end of the century.
Other
Designsite: Polyethylene
Basic information about polyethylene and links to its uses and variations.
Other
Design in Site: Polystyrene
Decent site which outlines the properties of polystyrene. Interesting statistics on the raw material needs of production.