Slime Time
Glue is made up of long flexible molecules (that we can’t see) called polymers. These polymer molecules slide past each other when glue is in its liquid state. When borax is dissolved in water, an ion called the borate ion is formed. When the borax + water solution is added to the glue + water solution, these borate ions help link the long polymer molecules to each other so they cannot move and flow as easily as they do in the liquid state. When enough polymer molecules get linked together in the right way, the glue solution changes from being very liquidy to a rubbery kind of stuff that we call slime!
WARNINGS & SAFETY
Borax is harmful if ingested. Hands should be washed after playing with slime. Volunteers and children should wear safety glasses to prevent borax dust in the eyes. Food coloring can stain clothing. Lab coats are optional!
