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Flashcards in Polymers Deck (19)
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1
Q

What are polymer

A

Long chain molecules formed from lots of monomers joined together

2
Q

What is addition polymerisation

A

Where the double binds in alkenes open up and join together to make polymers

3
Q

Alkene monomer properties

A

Unsaturated

Strong covalent bonds

4
Q

Polymer properties

A
Saturated
Non polar
Unreactive
Chemically inert
Weak intermolecular forces
5
Q

Why are long chain polymers with fewer branches rigid and strong

A

Strong intermolecular forces

6
Q

Properties of poly(chloroethene)

A

Polar covalent bonds between C-Cl
Permanent dipole-dipole forces between polymer chains
Hard
Brittle

7
Q

What is PVC used for

A

Drain pipes

Window frames

8
Q

What do plasticisers do

A

Adding a plasticiser to a polymer makes it bendier. The plasticiser molecules get between the polymer chains and push them apart. The reduces the strength of the intermolecular forces between the chains so the Chianina can slide around more, making them more flexible

9
Q

What is plasticised PVC used for

A

Electrical cable insulation
Flooring tiles
Clothing

10
Q

Why are condensation polymers stronger and more rigid than addition polymers

A

Made up of chains of plane bonds so H bonds between polymer chains

11
Q

Why are polyalkenes chemically inert

A

The bonds between repeating units are non polar so not susceptible to attack by nucleophiles

12
Q

Why are polyalkenes not biodegradable

A

They’re chemically inert

13
Q

Why are condensation polymers biodegradable

A

Bonds between repeating units are polar and can be attacker by nucleophiles

14
Q

Advantages of landfill

A

Cheap

Easy method

15
Q

Disadvantages of landfill

A

Requires lots of land
Decomposing waste releases methane
As waste decomposes it releases toxins which can be washed away and contaminate water supplies

16
Q

Advantages of burning waste plastic

A

Heat used to generate electricity

17
Q

Disadvantages of burning waste plastics

A

Toxic gases released

18
Q

Advantages of recycling plastic

A

Reduces waste going to landfill
Saves raw materials (oil not renewable)
Saves money as costs less to recycle than make plastics from scratch
Reduces CO2 emissions

19
Q

Disadvantages of recycling plastics

A

Difficult
Collecting and sorting more expensive than burning/landfill
Can’t remake the plastic you started off with, have to make another plastic with the recycled plastic
Plastic easily contaminated ed during recycling process