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Unit 12: Alternative Energy Page 12 of 31
Polymers are large molecules that reactions can change one
may contain millions of atoms. substance into another or break
Important natural polymers include one substance down into smaller
natural rubber, starch, and DNA. parts of molecules, atoms, or ions.
Some important artificial polymers
are nylon, which is used in making
fabrics; polyethylene, which is used
in making plastic bags and plastic A Note about Science and
bottles; and polystyrene, which is Experiments
used in making styrofoam cups and
insulation. One way to learn more about the
environment and science is to do
Atoms are made of smaller experiments. Science experiments
particles called electrons, protons, provide a way of asking questions
and neutrons. The nucleus is the and finding answers. The results
center of the atom and contains that come from experiments and
protons and neutrons. Protons are observations increase our
positively charged, and neutrons knowledge and improve our
have no charge. Electrons are understanding of the world around
negatively charged and surround us.
the nucleus and give the atom its
size. Science will never have all the
answers because there are always
Atoms and molecules that are new questions to ask. However,
charged are called ions. Ions have science is the most important way
either a positive charge or a we gather new knowledge about
negative charge. Positive ions have our world.
more protons than electrons.
Negative ions have more electrons Not every experiment you do will
than protons. work the way you expect every
time. Something may be different
Sodium chloride, which is the in the experiment when you do it.
chemical name for table salt, is Repeat the experiment if it gives
made of positive sodium ions and an unexpected result and think
negative chlorine ions. about what may be different.
Atoms, ions, and molecules can Not all of the experiments in this
combine in chemical reactions to book give immediate results. Some
make new substances. Chemical experiments in this book will take
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