18.1 Introducing polymers Flashcards
What is a polymer?
A substance containing very large molecules created by joining small molecules together
How can you make the polymer of ethene?
You heat it to 50 degrees, with some atmospheric pressure and over a special catalyst. It turns into a waxy white solid.
It is used to make toys dustbins tables chair pipes buckets crates washing up bowls etc
How do you draw the polymer of a monomer?
You break the C=C bonds and connect the Carbons to other substances of (Carbon again) with a single bond
How do you name a polymer?
You write ‘poly’ the the name of the substance you are polymerization
What is polymerization?
When thousands of small molecules join to give one large molecule. Small molecules are called monomers. The product is a polymer.
What is a synthetic polymer?
Made in a factory. Such as nylon, teryoene, Lycra, chewing gum, plastics like polystyrene and Perspex.
Hair and shower gels contain water-soluble polymers.
Name some natural polymers
Starch= made from glucose Cellulose= made from glucose Proteins= made from amino acids
Skin, hair, bones, muscles are made of proteins.
Clothing is made from cellulose (Cotton)
Where is keratin found?
In hair, nails, wood, silk and horns and claws.
What is the polymer in skin and bones called?
Collagen
What is the name of the 2 types of reaction that take place in polymerization.
Condensation
Addition reaction
