Elastomers

Elastomers are special materials that can stretch and bounce back to their original shape like a very stretchy rubber band or a bouncy ball. Imagine playing with a piece of gum or silly putty, when you pull it apart it stretches really far but then goes back to it's original shape when you let go. That's what elastomers can do!

These materials are made up of long chains of molecules that are flexible and can move around easily. When a force is applied to an elastomer, the chains can slide past each other causing it to stretch. But when the force is removed, the chains snap back into place returning the elastomer to its original shape.

Elastomers are used in many everyday products like rubber bands, shoe soles, and even in car tires. They are very important because they can absorb shock and vibrations making things like car rides and walking more comfortable. Elastomers also have the ability to create a tight seal which makes them useful in products like gaskets and o-rings, which help keep liquids or gases from leaking out.

In summary, elastomers are materials that can stretch and bounce back to their original shape. They are made up of flexible molecules that allow them to stretch and return to their original shape when a force is applied and then removed. Elastomers are used in many things we use in our daily lives and are important for comfort and keeping things sealed.