Synthetic compound

A synthetic compound is like a pretend toy. It’s made in a lab by scientists who put different materials together to make something new.

Just like how you can mix different colors of playdough to make a new color, scientists can mix different chemicals to make a synthetic compound.

Some synthetic compounds are like medicine- they can help your body fight off germs or make you feel better when you’re sick. Others are used in everyday things like plastic and rubber.

But just like with a toy, some synthetic compounds can be dangerous if they’re not made correctly. That’s why scientists have to be very careful when they make synthetic compounds and make sure they’re safe for us to use.