Polymer Lab and Diaper Lab- General Chemistry Experiment

Watch as I walk you through fun qualitative experiments involving two different polymers- polyacrylate in Part A and sodium alginate in Part B. In Part A, we will explore the effects of ionic and molecular solid compounds on polyacrylate gel, which is an absorbent found inside of diapers. Which type of compounds will change the physical appearance of the polymer? What properties cause these visible changes? In Part B, we will analyze the effects of ionic compounds on sodium alginate gel. When sodium alginate gel is dropped into a variety of ionic solutions, we will see different physical changes in the solutions based on the sizes of the cation and anions that make up the ions. What periodic groups will cause an observable effect? Which ones won't? Watch, observe and come to your own conclusions!