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gum

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Gum is a natural product that is produced by some plants. It is made up of a mixture of chemicals, including resins, sugars, and water. The resins give gum its sticky properties, while the sugars and water make it soft and chewy.

Gum is used by plants for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Protecting the plant from predators: Gum can make the plant difficult for predators to eat.
  • Helping the plant attach to surfaces: Gum can help the plant attach to rocks, soil, and other surfaces.
  • Attracting pollinators: Some plants produce gum that is attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.

Gum is also used by humans for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Chewing gum: Chewing gum can help to freshen your breath and to relieve stress.
  • Making adhesives: Gum can be used to make adhesives that are used in a variety of products, such as tape and glue.
  • Making medicines: Gum can be used to make medicines that are used to treat a variety of conditions, such as stomach ulcers and diarrhoea.

How can the word be used?

The child was chewing gum.

gum

Different forms of the word

Noun: gum.

Adjective: gummy.

Verb: to gum.

Synonym: resin, sap.

Etymology

The word "gum" as in the sticky substance that comes from trees comes from the Old English word "goma", which also means "gum". The Old English word is thought to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word "gummaz", which also means "gum".

Question

What is gum?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

What is gum and how does it work?

Answer:

  • Gum is a soft, chewy substance that is typically made from a mixture of gum base, sugar, and flavourings. Gum is often used as a snack or to freshen breath.
  • Gum base is the main ingredient in gum. It is a natural or synthetic substance that gives gum its chewiness. Sugar is added to gum to make it taste sweet. Flavourings are added to gum to give it a variety of flavours, such as mint, fruit, and bubble gum.
  • When gum is chewed, the gum base mixes with the saliva in the mouth. This causes the gum to become sticky and to foam. The foam acts as a barrier between the teeth and the air, which helps to prevent plaque from forming on the teeth.
  • Gum can also help to freshen your breath by absorbing bad-tasting substances in the mouth. However, gum does not replace brushing and flossing.

Here are some additional points that could be included in the answer:

  • Gum is a popular snack food. It is often eaten between meals or as a way to relieve stress.
  • Gum can also be used to freshen breath. The act of chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps to wash away food particles and bacteria from the mouth.
  • Gum can also help to improve concentration. The act of chewing gum can help to stimulate the brain and improve focus.
  • Gum is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. It is important to brush and floss your teeth twice a day to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.
  • Some types of gum, such as sugar-free gum, can also help to reduce tooth decay.