Synthetic Materials

What is the name of the superstrong synthetic material that can stop a bullet?

• Nylon

• Kevlar

• Polyester

• Acetate

Answer explanation

Kevlar is a superstrong synthetic material known for its high tensile strength and is commonly used in bulletproof vests. Unlike nylon, polyester, and acetate, Kevlar is specifically designed to withstand ballistic impacts.

Which natural resource is processed to produce Kevlar?

• Petroleum

• Wood pulp

• Crude oil

• Natural gas

Answer explanation

Kevlar is produced from a polymer derived from petroleum. This synthetic fiber is known for its high strength and durability, making petroleum the correct natural resource processed to create Kevlar.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What is the molecular structure of Kevlar that gives it great tensile strength?

• Twisted, tangled coil of synthetic fibers

• Long-chained polymers

• Single layer of carbon atoms

• Repeating units of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Twisted, tangled coil of synthetic fibers', describes how Kevlar's molecular structure enhances its tensile strength by providing flexibility and resistance to breaking under tension.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

What is the first synthetic fiber discovered in 1935?

• Nylon

• Polyester

• Acetate

• Rayon

Answer explanation

Nylon, discovered in 1935 by Wallace Carothers, was the first synthetic fiber. It marked a significant advancement in materials science, leading to the development of various textiles and products.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What is the main component of nylon polymer?

• Carbon and hydrogen

• Carbon and oxygen

• Carbon and nitrogen

• Carbon and sulfur

Answer explanation

Nylon is a synthetic polymer primarily made from carbon and hydrogen atoms. While nitrogen is also present in the structure, the main components are carbon and hydrogen, making this the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

Which synthetic material was originally intended to replace silk?

• Nylon

• Polyester

• Acetate

• Rayon

Answer explanation

Nylon was developed in the 1930s as a synthetic alternative to silk, primarily for use in stockings and other textiles, making it the correct answer to the question.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What is the process called to change natural resources into synthetic products?

• Chemical synthesis

• Mechanical process

• Chemical vapor deposition

• Chemical reactions

Answer explanation

The process of changing natural resources into synthetic products is called chemical synthesis. This involves using chemical reactions to create new substances, distinguishing it from other processes like mechanical methods.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

Which synthetic material is made from wood pulp?

• Nylon

• Polyester

• Acetate

• Rayon

Answer explanation

Rayon is a synthetic material derived from wood pulp, making it unique among the options. Nylon and polyester are petroleum-based, while acetate is made from cellulose but not directly from wood pulp.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What are rayon and acetate considered as they are manufactured from naturally occurring polymers?

• Natural fibers

• Synthetic fibers

• Semisynthetic fibers

• Inorganic fibers

Answer explanation

Rayon and acetate are derived from natural polymers but undergo chemical processing, classifying them as semisynthetic fibers. They are not purely natural or synthetic, making 'semisynthetic fibers' the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What are the advantages of synthetic materials over natural fibers?

• Stretchable, waterproof, and stain-resistant

• Sensitive to elements and tend to break down over time

• Attractive as a food source to insects

• Fall apart when exposed to light, water, or oil

Answer explanation

Synthetic materials offer advantages like being stretchable, waterproof, and stain-resistant, making them more durable and practical for various applications compared to natural fibers, which can be sensitive to elements.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3