Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry: Synthetic Polymers

How is an addition polymer formed?

By joining up many small molecules called monomers.

Give some uses of poly(ethene).

Poly(ethene) can be used for milk jugs; detergent bottles; margarine tubs; garden furniture; gas pipes; rubbish bins; storage tanks for fuel; plastic bags and cling film.

Give some uses of poly(propene).

Poly(propene) is used for food packaging, ropes and carpets.

Give some uses of poly(chlorethene).

Poly(chlorethene) is used for plastic sheets, artificial leather, drainpipes and gutters, insulation for electrical wires and casings for electrical plugs.

Why are addition polymers hard to dispose of?

Their inertness means that they do not easily biodegrade.

What process do polymers such as nylon form by?

Condensation polymerisation.

What does condensation polymerisation produce?

The polymer and a small molecule, such as water.