Creating polymer balls involves a simple chemical process that transforms sodium polyacrylate, a type of superabsorbent polymer, into a squishy, fun ball. First, you need sodium polyacrylate, which can be found in diaper lining. Extracting the polymer, you then add it to water, allowing it to absorb and swell. For a more interactive experience, food coloring can be added to the water for vibrant balls. Gently shaping the swollen polymer will help form it into a ball. It's key to manage the amount of water to polymer ratio for the desired consistency. This hands-on activity demonstrates the properties of polymers and their ability to absorb vast amounts of liquid relative to their mass, showcasing an interesting aspect of material science.

Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas primarily used to manufacture polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a material common in various plastic products. In the air, it poses significant health risks, including an increased risk of liver, lung, and brain cancer upon long-term exposure, as classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. To mitigate these risks, industries are regulated to limit emissions, and monitoring air quality in areas near chemical plants is crucial. Individuals in such areas should be informed about potential exposures and health implications. Reducing personal exposure by ensuring proper ventilation in homes and workplaces and participating in community monitoring efforts can also help protect public health.

Cellulose, a key component of plant cell walls, plays an essential role in providing structural support. It is composed of glucose monomers linked together through glycosidic bonds. Glucose, in turn, is synthesized during photosynthesis, a process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Oxygen atoms in cellulose primarily originate from carbon dioxide (CO2) that plants absorb from the atmosphere. During photosynthesis, CO2 and water (H2O) are transformed into glucose and oxygen gas (O2). The oxygen atoms in CO2 become part of the glucose molecule, and subsequently, cellulose when glucose units polymerize. While the majority of oxygen in cellulose comes from CO2, some oxygen atoms also originate from the water molecules used in photosynthesis. However, the primary source is atmospheric CO2, highlighting the critical role of photosynthesis in both cellulose synthesis and oxygen production.