The Science and Potential of Spider Silk: A Strong and Sustainable Material

Spider silk is a marvel of natural engineering, being both strong and biodegradable. It is produced by spiders at room temperature using gravity, unlike human-made polymers that require polluting machinery. Zoologists are studying spider silk to replicate it for industrial and medical uses. The potential applications are vast, including wound dressings and protective clothing. The challenge lies in producing it economically on a large scale, which could lead to synthesizing other natural materials.

What makes spider silk a marvel of natural engineering?

• Its ability to conduct electricity

• Its resistance to water

• Its strength and flexibility

• Its ability to change color

How does the spider's method of producing silk differ from human methods?

• Spiders use high temperatures

• Spiders use electricity

• Spiders use chemical reactions

• Spiders use gravity and room temperature

What is one of the environmental benefits of spider silk production?

• It produces no sound

• It uses solar energy

• It is biodegradable

• It requires no water

Which of the following is a potential application of spider silk?

• Food packaging

• Wound dressings

• Building construction

• Space travel

What is the ultimate goal of scientists studying spider silk?

• To eliminate the need for synthetic fibers

• To make spiders a common household pet

• To synthesize other natural materials

• To create new species of spiders