Polymers

Question 1

What are polymers? Homopolymers? Copolymers?

Answer 1

1. Large organic molecules consisting of a chain of multiple repeating units called MERS
2. Can be made synthetically using high pressure or a catalyst
3. Homopolymer = made up of only one type of mer
4. Copolymer = made up of more than one type of mer

Question 2

Give examples of natural and synthetic polymers.

Answer 2

1. Natural - silk, rubber

2. Synthetic - teflon, nylon

Question 3

What are the properties of polymers?

Answer 3

1. Generally have high mp and bp
2. Tend to be low in density
3. Poor electrical and thermal conductivity
4. Durable

Question 4

Finish the sentence: “Polymers are formed by either…”

Answer 4

Addition or condensation polymerisation - the type depends on the atoms and bonds that make up the monomer