Cornstarch is an example of a polymer. Polymers are long strains of molecules that repeat over and over again and have different properties than the original single molecular group. A single section of a polymer is called a monomer. This looks like the simplest form of the repeating part of the entire polymer. These polymers can stretch when you make a mixture such as cornstarch and water. This mixture behaves in a certain way. There are many theories as to why this can happen. One theory is that the strands become tangled, making it difficult to slide against each other. Stretched molecules would provide more resistance to movement, like the resistance of a stretched rubber band. However, this argument explains why rapid movement (agitation, agitation, etc.) increases viscosity, which is the property of a fluid that provides resistance to flow. Cornstarch and water are a non-Newtonian organic fluid. Fluids can belong to different subgroups. They are either non-Newtonian or Newtonian. They may also be organic or not. Non-Newtonian fluids are a group of liquids that change viscosity when stirred, shaken, or otherwise. Cornstarch and water act differently depending on whether they are still or stirred. This type of liquid is called a dilatant. It becomes more viscous (has relatively high flow resistance) when stirred or compressed. The viscosity of a non-Newtonian fluid also depends on temperature. Cornstarch would decrease in viscosity if put in a boiling pot (it would become thinner). Examples of Newtonian fluids include motor oils, mineral oils, gasoline, kerosene, and most saline solutions in water. The most common explanation for the behavior of cornstarch and water is that when they are still, the tiny starch grains are surrounded by water. The surface tension of the water prevents it from flowing completely out of the spaces between the grains. Water lubrication allows the pellets to move freely. However, if the movement is abrupt (shake, stir, poke, slap, etc.), water is expelled between the granules and the friction between them increases considerably. Other examples of polymers are present in our daily lives. Water-resistant paints and varnishes come from a family of synthetic polymers called acrylics. Styrofoam, or polystyrene foam, is used in making cartons to protect eggs or in making packing peanuts to cushion fragile items for shipping. It insulates, so people put drinks in foam cups and coolers to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold..