MadSci Network: Other |
Bubble gum contains rubber-like natural materials such as chicle from the tropical sapodilla tree. These materials along with synthetic materials are used to give bubble gum elasticity. Gums are naturally elastic and obtain this elasticity by having a molecular structure that can undergo changes in in the amount of coiling within the polymer as force is applied. A spring is often used as a model for trying to explain elasticity. The long polymer strands can be thought of as a spring -- as you apply a force to them, the coiled chains expand by straightening out. The air from your mouth provides this force. A nice web site to learn more about chewing gum is: http://comptons.aol.com/encyclopedia/ARTICLES/00958_A.html
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