P2C24 - Polymers Flashcards
What are polymers held together by?
- Strong covalent bonds between atoms in molecules.
- Weak intermolecular forces between molecules.
What are polymers?
Large, chain-like molecules that can extend for thousands of atoms.
What state are polymers at room temperature?
Solid
Why are intermolecular forces stronger in polymers than small molecules?
Polymers are bigger
What is addition polymerisation?
The joining of numerous short chain monomers to form one long chain polymer.
What are the monomers in addition polymerisation?
Alkenes
What is condensation polymerisation?
The joining together of monomers with 2 functional groups to produce larger polymers, as well as small molecule by-products
What are the problems with polymers?
They don’t biodegrade.
Combustion releases CO2
Land becomes polluted (landfill)
Difficult to recycle
Expensive process to recycle etc
Whats an example of a polymer?
Plastic
