Goma vs. caucho
The Spanish words 'goma' and 'caucho' both translate to 'rubber' in English. However, they are used in different contexts and can refer to slightly different things.
Goma
'Goma' typically refers to 'rubber' in a more general sense and can also mean an eraser or elastic band.
Necesito una goma para borrar el lápiz.
(I need an eraser to erase the pencil.)
La goma de la manguera está dañada.
(The hose rubber is damaged.)
Ella usa una goma para atarse el pelo.
(She uses an elastic band to tie her hair.)
Esa pelota está hecha de goma.
(That ball is made of rubber.)
Caucho
'Caucho' is frequently used to refer specifically to natural or synthetic rubber, often in industrial or automotive contexts.
Los neumáticos del coche están hechos de caucho.
(The car tires are made of rubber.)
Trabaja en una fábrica de caucho.
(He works in a rubber factory.)
El caucho se utiliza para fabricar suelas de zapatos.
(Rubber is used to make shoe soles.)
Tenemos productos de caucho para uso industrial.
(We have rubber products for industrial use.)
Summary
The word 'goma' generally refers to a wider range of everyday objects like erasers, elastic bands, and generic rubber items. On the other hand, 'caucho' is more specialized and often relates to natural or synthetic rubber materials used in manufacturing industries.