6. Organic molecules ( POLYMERS)

Question 1

Methods of disposal for waste polymers

Answer 1

• incineration
• recycling and sorting
• feedstock for cracking

Question 2

What is incineration of waste polymers

Answer 2

rubbish is burnt and energy is produced and used to generate electricity however toxins and greenhouse gases are released

Question 3

recycling of waste polymers advantages and disadvantages

Answer 3

+ saves raw materials (crude oil)
- collecting and sorting is expensive

Question 4

What is feedstock for cracking

Answer 4

where the polymers can undergo cracking to form smaller molecules to make other chemicals and polymers - saving raw materials

Question 5

How do chemists limit problems caused by polymer disposal

Answer 5

1) developing biodegradable polymers
2) removing toxic gases caused by incineration eg neutralising the HCl released