Career:
Automotive Body
Repairer
Table of Contents
 
Science
A Harsh Environment

Some cars look newer than others of the same age. That's because their owners have taken steps to protect the paint and body of the car. Many environmental substances, such as snow and ice, bird droppings, and pollution, can change the way a car's paint looks.

The paint and finish of today’s cars can withstand environmental damage much better than cars of the past. Less waxing, shining, and buffing are needed. Yet, a car that is ignored will age more quickly than a pampered car.

Activity 1: It's a Dangerous World Out There
1. Following is a list of factors that affect the paint and the body of a car. Match each of the items to a definition.
  Acid rain
Hail
Oxidation (rust)
Salt
Sunlight
A rough sponge
 
a.is an environmental problem that can dissolve automotive paint.
b.damages a car by putting little scratches in the paint.
c.occurs when paint is scraped or chipped off a car and the bare metal is exposed to rain or moisture. If left untreated, you could end up with holes in the body of your car!
d.causes a car's paint to fade.
e.can erode or eat away the body of a car. This damage most often occurs in areas with harsh winters.
f.affects a car's roof and hood. It causes dents of various sizes and can chip the paint.
2. Of the above list, which factor do you think is most harmful to a car's body? Explain your answer.
  Most harmful
 
  Explanation
 

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