Science of Glass Making: How is Glass Made?

Glass is a versatile material used in various applications, from windows to lab items. Despite its solid appearance, glass is a liquid made by heating sand to high temperatures. In industrial settings, sand is mixed with waste glass, limestone, and soda ash to produce soda lime silica glass. Different chemicals can be added to create various glass types, such as tinted or oven-proof glass. Specialized glass, like bulletproof or tempered glass, is made through unique processes. Glass is a clear, strong, and useful material that serves many purposes.

What is the primary material used to make glass?

• Wood

• Metal

• Clay

• Sand

Why is soda ash added during the industrial production of glass?

• To add color to the glass

• To increase the melting point of sand

• To reduce the melting point of sand

• To make the glass more transparent

What is the purpose of adding limestone in the glass manufacturing process?

• To add a green tint to the glass

• To prevent the glass from dissolving in water

• To strengthen the glass

• To make the glass dissolve in water

Which chemical is added to produce blue glass?

• Chromium

• Iron

• Boron

• Cobalt

How is bulletproof glass typically made?

• By sandwiching layers of glass and plastic

• By cooling glass rapidly

• By adding boron oxide

• By adding cobalt salt