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Oxygen, for the most part. Oxidation is usually the cause of decay for most things. It could also be argued that some pollutants in the air like "acid rain" are responsible, but they are not omnipresent and therefore could not account for all rubber decay.

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What causes rubber to shrink?

Rubber can shrink due to exposure to heat, solvents, or prolonged tension. Heat can break down the polymers in the rubber, causing it to contract. Solvents can dissolve components of the rubber, leading to shrinkage. Tension can alter the molecular structure of the rubber, causing it to compact.


How does heat affect the elasticity and durability of rubber bands?

Heat can cause rubber bands to lose their elasticity and durability. When exposed to high temperatures, the rubber molecules break down and become less flexible, leading to a decrease in elasticity and an increase in brittleness. This can cause the rubber band to break more easily and lose its ability to stretch and return to its original shape.


Does a rubber band break or rip?

A rubber band can break when stretched beyond its limits, rather than ripping like paper. The material weakens and eventually snaps due to the stress placed on it.


How does a rubber rub out?

Rubber works by creating friction and heat, which helps to break down and remove the graphite or ink marks from paper when rubbed against it. The rubber's abrasive surface grabs hold of the residue and eventually erases it through repeated rubbing motions.


Why do watermelon break if you put lots of rubber band on it?

When you put a lot of rubber bands around a watermelon, the pressure from the rubber bands creates tension and stress on the watermelon's outer skin. Eventually, this pressure becomes too much for the watermelon to withstand, causing it to break open or explode.

Related Questions

Does Krazy Glue break down rubber?

No, it doesn't break down rubber, but also may not stick very well when the rubber is stretched.


Will alcohol break down rubber?

No, it wil not.


What chemical process breaks down rubber?

Rubber can be broken down through a process called oxidation, where oxygen reacts with the rubber molecules and causes them to break apart.


What will break down rubber other than heat?

Freezing it and then smashing it.


Will mineral oil break down rubber?

Mineral oil can potentially break down rubber over time by softening it and causing it to swell or degrade. It's important to check the compatibility of the specific rubber material with mineral oil before using them together to avoid any damage.


How is rubber sole residue removed from concrete floors?

Aside from power washing, there is acetone (nail polish remover). Acetone will help to break down the 'rubber'


Can drano be used in rubber hoses?

No, Drano should not be used in rubber hoses as it can cause damage to the hose material. It is designed to break down clogs in drains, not suitable for use in rubber hoses.


What causes rubber to shrink?

Rubber can shrink due to exposure to heat, solvents, or prolonged tension. Heat can break down the polymers in the rubber, causing it to contract. Solvents can dissolve components of the rubber, leading to shrinkage. Tension can alter the molecular structure of the rubber, causing it to compact.


Will virgin sulfuric acid eat rubber?

Yes, virgin sulfuric acid can react with rubber, causing it to deteriorate and break down. It is important to handle sulfuric acid with care and avoid contact with rubber to prevent damage.


How does heat affect the elasticity and durability of rubber bands?

Heat can cause rubber bands to lose their elasticity and durability. When exposed to high temperatures, the rubber molecules break down and become less flexible, leading to a decrease in elasticity and an increase in brittleness. This can cause the rubber band to break more easily and lose its ability to stretch and return to its original shape.


Is rubber dispersed by splitting?

Rubber can be dispersed by splitting through a process called mechanical dispersion. This involves applying force to break down the rubber molecules into smaller particles, which allows for better dispersion in a matrix material like in rubber compounding for manufacturing tires.


How did Elisha Graves Otis invent the elevator break?

by putting two rubber stoppers on the rope that pulls the elevator up or down