How Gullible Are We?

[254 words] A freshman at Eagle Rock Junior High won first prize at the Greater Idaho Falls Science Fair, April 26, 1997. In his project he urged people to sign a petition demanding strict control or total elimination of the chemical “dihydrogen monoxide.” And for plenty of good reasons, since: 1. It can cause excessive sweating and vomiting. 2. It is a major component in acid rain. 3. It can cause severe burns in its gaseous state. 4. Accidental inhalation can kill you. 5. It contributes to erosion. 6. It decreases effectiveness of automobile brakes. 7. It has been found in tumors of terminal patients. He asked fifty people if they supported a ban of the chemical. Forty-three said, “Yes,” six were undecided, and the last one? Well, only one knew that the chemical, dihydrogen monoxide is water (H20). The title of his prize winning project: “How Gullible Are We?”…