C11 - Polymers Flashcards
What is a polymer?
A large chain of covalently bonded molecules, called monomers.
What are two examples of polymers?
Poly(ethene) is used to make polythene plastic, and is used in drinks bottles and cling film.
Poly(propene) is used to make strong plastic, and is used in carpets and ropes.
How do monomers join in addition polymerisation?
Double bond in monomer breaks -> Carbons connect to one another -> Chain continues.
How is a polyester formed?
Alcohol and Carboxylic Acid monomers -> C-OH bond breaks on one molecule, C-H bond breaks on other -> Join at broken bonds -> H2O and Polyester formed.
What are two examples of natural polymers?
Glucose Monomers -> Starch Polymers + Water
Glucose Monomers -> Cellulose Polymers + Water
What is the structure of an amino acid, in terms of groups?
Amino acids have a basic and acidic group in the same molecule. They form polymers in condensation polymerisation to form polypeptides.
In regards to polymers, what is the structure of DNA?
A long chain of monomers called Nucleotides, made of a sugar bonded to a phosphate and one of 4 possible bases -T:A or C:G.
