Clandestine chemistry

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/clandestine-chemistry

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the primary objective?Illicit synthesis of controlled substances, predominantly for profit on the black market
2. What is the operational modus operandi?Utilizes precursor chemicals and organic synthesis techniques in covert, often hazardous, environments
3. What is a secret science lab?A secret science lab is a hidden place where people make chemicals that are not allowed. It is kept quiet so nobody knows what is happening.
4. Why do people create secret science labs?People sometimes create them to make money from selling illegal drugs or to experiment with chemicals without paying for safety tests. They want to stay hidden from police.

Precursor Chemicals: Chemicals that can be used as starting materials to synthesize other, often illicit, substances.
Organic Chemistry: The branch of chemistry that studies compounds containing carbon, forming the basis of most illicit drugs.
HAZMAT: Hazardous Materials; teams trained to handle dangerous chemical substances and environments.