Polystyrene is used commonly for drinking cups, disposable plates and packing material; the product is known for its seemingly indestructible properties. However, polystyrene is made up of long strands of styrene polymers that contain large pockets of air, and certain chemical reactions can dissolve the carbon-hydrogen bonds of the strands. This releases the air and the plastic quickly melts into a liquid form. Used frequently as a classroom science project, the experiment can be performed at home using acetone.
- Large clear glass container
- 2 cups acetone
- Plastic drinking straw
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Instructions
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1
Cut the polystyrene into small pieces that will fit into the glass container.
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2
Pour 2 cups of acetone into the glass container.
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3
Drop the polystyrene pieces into the acetone. Use a plastic straw to stir gently. The pieces will disappear as the acetone dissolves the polystyrene.