Resin

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/resin

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 chemical classification?Complex organic mixtures, predominantly terpenes and related compounds
2. What is the biological origin?Primarily secreted by plants, especially trees, in response to injury
3. Why do plants make resin?Plants use resin to protect themselves when they get hurt. The sticky resin seals wounds and keeps out germs and insects.
4. How does resin help keep insects away?Resin is sticky and smells strong, so it can trap small bugs and make big animals think twice before chewing on the plant.

Polymerization: A chemical process where small molecules (monomers) combine to form large chains (polymers).
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemicals that easily turn into gas at room temperature, often contributing to scent.
Biopolymer: A polymer produced by living organisms, such as resins secreted by plants.