ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Paperboard

Paperboard is a strong and sturdy type of paper that can be used to make lots of things like cereal boxes, shoe boxes, and even some books!

Imagine you have a piece of regular paper, like the kind you might use to draw a picture. If you crumple it up or try to bend it, it might tear easily because it's not very strong. Now, imagine a piece of cardboard, like the kind a pizza box is made of. That's much stronger and harder to bend or tear, right? Well, paperboard is kind of like a middle ground between those two things.

It's thicker and sturdier than regular paper, but not quite as tough as cardboard. That makes it a great material for things like packaging, because it can protect what's inside without being too heavy or bulky. Imagine if your cereal box was made out of super thick cardboard- it would be really hard to carry it around or pour the cereal out! But if it was made out of thin paper that tore easily, the cereal might not stay fresh or protected inside the box.

So, paperboard is a happy balance between strength and flexibility, and it's used to make lots of different things that help keep our belongings safe and organized.
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