4.7.3 Synthetic and naturally occurring polymers Flashcards
What are alkenes used for in polymer chemistry?
Alkenes can be used to make polymers such as poly(ethene) and poly(propene) by addition polymerisation.
What occurs during addition polymerisation?
In addition polymerisation reactions, many small molecules (monomers) join together to form very large molecules (polymers).
What is a characteristic of addition polymers?
In addition polymers, the repeating unit has the same atoms as the monomer because no other molecule is formed in the reaction.
What is condensation polymerisation?
Condensation polymerisation involves monomers with two functional groups that join together, usually losing small molecules such as water.
What is produced from ethanediol and hexanedioic acid?
Ethanediol and hexanedioic acid polymerise to produce a polyester.
What do amino acids produce through condensation polymerisation?
Amino acids react by condensation polymerisation to produce polypeptides.
What is an example of an amino acid?
Glycine is an example of an amino acid, represented as H2NCH2COOH.
What is the structure of DNA?
DNA is a large molecule essential for life, consisting of two polymer chains made from four different monomers called nucleotides, in the form of a double helix.
What are other naturally occurring polymers important for life?
Other naturally occurring polymers include proteins, starch, and cellulose.
