What is the chemical formula for slime using glue and borax?
The chemical formula for slime made from glue and borax can be simplified as follows:
1. Start with Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) glue, whose chemical formula is (C4H6O2)n. The 'n' represents a large number of repeating units.
2. When borax (sodium borate) is added to the PVA glue, it creates cross-linkages between the polymer chains, resulting in the formation of a slime-like substance.
3. The reaction between the PVA glue and borax can be represented by the following equation:
4(C4H6O2)n + Na2B4O7 → [-(C4H6O2-)4-B4-O7-Na+]n
In this equation, the PVA chains combine with borate ions (B4O7) to create a network structure, forming the slime. However, please note that this equation is a simplified representation and does not accurately reflect the precise chemical reactions occurring.
The chemical formula for slime made using glue and borax is not a precise formula because it is not a single, pure chemical compound. It is rather a mixture of polymers created through a chemical reaction between the glue and borax.
To make slime using glue and borax, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
1. White school glue (such as Elmer's glue)
2. Water
3. Borax powder (available in most grocery stores or online)
4. Food coloring (optional)
Equipment:
1. Mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. Stirring utensil (such as a spoon or popsicle stick)
Here's a step-by-step explanation of how to make slime using glue and borax:
1. Start by preparing a borax solution. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 teaspoon of borax powder. Stir until the borax dissolves completely. This solution will act as an activator.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of white school glue. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to give your slime a specific color.
3. Slowly pour the borax solution into the bowl with the glue while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to come together and becomes difficult to stir.
4. At this point, you can use your hands to continue mixing and kneading the slime until it reaches the desired consistency. If the slime is too sticky, add a small amount of borax solution or water and knead it in. If it is too stiff, add a few drops of water and knead until it becomes softer.
5. Once you have achieved the desired texture and consistency, your slime is ready to be played with! Store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out.
It is important to note that handling borax can irritate the skin, so be sure to handle it with care and wash your hands thoroughly after making slime. Additionally, adult supervision is advised, especially when making slime with young children.
Here us a site that gives specific instructions how to make slime. At the very end is a small discussion about the polymer and the hydrogen bonds that cross link it.
https://www.stevespanglerscience.com/lab/experiments/glue-borax-gak/