K-4 Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses. Objects have many observable properties including . The physical properties of compounds reflect the nature of the interactions among its molecules. These interactions are determined by the structure of the molecule, including the constituent atoms and the distances and angles between them. Tap water works, but distilled water is better.
Some markets sell powdered borax as a laundry additive.
Powdered hand soap containing borax can be substituted. Look for sodium tetraborate on the label. You may be able to obtain some sodium tetraborate from a chemistry teacher. The recipe for this polymer does not require much of the borate salt. Your measurements do not need to be accurate for the borax solution.