It's Synthetic! Trivia Quiz

Answer: Textiles

Polyester is a synthetic material made from petroleum-derived compounds through a chemical process called polymerization. It involves reacting a substance called ethylene glycol with terephthalic acid, which results in the formation of long chains of polymers.

These polymer chains are melted and then extruded through spinnerets, forming fibers that can be spun into fabric. Polyester is known for its durability, resistance to shrinking, and ability to dry quickly.

Answer: Textiles

Nylon is a synthetic polymer, meaning it is made from long chains of molecules that are artificially created. It was developed in the 1930s as a substitute for silk and is widely used in textiles and plastics. Nylon is also made through polymerization, where petroleum-based compounds, like adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine, are combined under high heat and pressure.

This reaction forms long, flexible chains of polyamide, the building blocks of nylon. These chains are then spun into fibers, which can be woven into fabrics or molded into solid shapes for various products, like clothing, ropes, and machine parts.

Answer: Textiles

Rayon is a semi-synthetic material made from natural cellulose, typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton. The cellulose is chemically processed to create fibers that mimic the texture and appearance of natural fabrics like silk or cotton. The production process involves dissolving the cellulose in a chemical solution, such as carbon disulfide and sodium hydroxide, to form a thick, viscous liquid.

This liquid is then extruded through spinnerets, creating long fibers. These fibers are treated, stretched, and spun into threads or fabric.

Answer: Textiles

Spandex, also known as elastane or Lycra, is a synthetic material known for its exceptional elasticity. It is made from a long chain polymer called polyurethane, which is produced through a chemical reaction between a polyester or polyether and a diisocyanate.

This reaction forms stretchy fibers that can be drawn out into thin threads. The unique structure of spandex fibers allows them to stretch up to five times their original length and then return to their original shape.

Answer: Composites

Kevlar is a synthetic fiber made from a class of strong, heat-resistant synthetic fibers called aramids. The production process involves a chemical reaction between para-phenylenediamine and terephthaloyl chloride, which forms long chains of molecules.

These chains are spun into fibers and then woven into fabric or formed into composite materials. Kevlar's structure features tightly packed polymer chains that create a strong bond, making it five times stronger than steel of the same weight.

Answer: Composites

Fiberglass is a synthetic material made from extremely fine fibers of glass. It is created by heating raw materials like silica sand, limestone, and other minerals to a high temperature until they melt into a liquid. This molten glass is then extruded through small holes to form thin strands, which are cooled and woven into a fabric or matted together.

These glass fibers can be combined with a plastic resin to create a lightweight, strong, and durable composite material.

Answer: Composites

Formica is a durable, heat-resistant laminate material commonly used for countertops and furniture surfaces. It is made by layering sheets of paper or fabric, which are coated with thermosetting resins like melamine and phenolic resins. These layers are stacked and then pressed together under high heat and pressure.

The bottom layers, treated with phenolic resin, provide strength and stability, while the top decorative layer, treated with melamine resin, gives the material its smooth, hard, and colorful finish. Once cured, the laminate becomes a solid, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, heat, and stains.

Answer: Composites

Carbon fiber is a lightweight but incredibly strong synthetic material made from thin strands of carbon atoms. These atoms are bonded together in a pattern that forms long, tightly woven chains. To create carbon fibers, a raw material called a precursor, typically polyacrylonitrile (PAN), is heated to extremely high temperatures in an environment without oxygen.

This process, called carbonization, removes non-carbon elements and leaves behind pure carbon fibers. These fibers are then woven into a fabric or combined with a resin to create a composite material.

Answer: Adhesives

Epoxy adhesive is a powerful synthetic glue used for bonding a wide range of materials, such as metal, wood, plastic, and glass. It is made from a combination of two main components: a resin and a hardener. When mixed, these components undergo a chemical reaction called curing, which transforms the liquid mixture into a solid, strong bond.

This reaction generates heat and causes the epoxy to harden, creating a durable and water-resistant adhesive.

Answer: Adhesives

Cyanoacrylate, commonly known as super glue, is a fast-acting synthetic adhesive used to bond materials like plastic, metal, and glass. It is made from cyanoacrylate monomers, which are liquid molecules that quickly polymerize (form long chains) when exposed to moisture, even from the humidity in the air.

This polymerization process causes the glue to harden almost instantly, creating a strong, durable bond. The unique chemistry of cyanoacrylate makes it ideal for applications that require a quick and permanent fix.

Answer: Adhesives

Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) is a synthetic adhesive commonly known as white glue or school glue. It is made through the polymerization of vinyl acetate monomers, a chemical reaction where these small molecules join together to form long chains, creating the PVA polymer.

The resulting adhesive is water-based and dries clear, making it ideal for use in paper, wood, and fabric bonding. PVA glue works by seeping into the pores of materials and hardening as the water evaporates, forming a flexible and strong bond.

Answer: Adhesives

Silicone adhesive is created by combining silicon (a naturally occurring element), oxygen, and other elements like carbon and hydrogen. The polymerization process involves chemically bonding these elements to form long chains of molecules, which are then processed into a paste or gel. Silicone adhesives work by forming a strong, durable bond as they cure and harden, often in the presence of moisture.