Addition polymers

Question 1

What are some

Addition polymers properties

Answer 1

• All polymers are long-chain molecules made by joining together a large number of monomer molecules.
• Addition polymers are made from a single monomer.
• Addition polymerisation involves monomer molecules that contain a C=C double bond.
• During addition, the double bonds open up and the molecules join to themselves to make a molecule with a very long chain.

Question 2

What’s the monomer in

Poly(ethene)

(Polyethylene, polythene, PE)

Answer 2

Ethene CH₂=CH₂

Properties: tough, durable
Examples of use: plastic bags, bowls, bottles, packaging

Question 3

What’s the monomer in

Poly(propene)

(Polypropylene, PP)

Answer 3

Propene CH₃CH=CH₂

Properties: tough, durable
Examples of use: crates and boxes, plastic rope

Question 4

What’s the monomer in

Poly(chloroethene)

(Polyvinyl chloride, PVC)

Answer 4

Chloroethene CH₂=CHCl

Properties: strong, hard (not as flexible as polythene)
Examples of use: insulation, pipes and guttering

Question 5

What’s the monomer in

Poly(tetrafluoroethene)

(Polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon, PTFE)

Answer 5

Tetrafluoroethene CF₂=CF₂

Properties: non-stick surface, withstands high temperatures
Examples of use: non-stick frying pans, non-stick taps and joints

Question 6

What’s the monomer in

Poly(phenylethene)

(Polystyrene, PS)

Answer 6

Phenylethene (styrene) C₆H₅CH=CH₂

Properties: light, poor conductor of heat
Examples of use: insulation, packaging (foam)