Plastic Flashcards
List three types of plastic that can be used as a packaging
Polystyrene
Polyethylene terephthalate
Low-density polyethylene
What does PS stand for
Polystyrene
What does PET stand for
Polyethylene terephthalate
What does LDPE stand for
Low - density polyethylene
Give an example of a way polystyrene can be used as a packaging
Styrofoam cups
Give an example of a way polyethylene terephthalate can be used as a packaging
Water bottles
Give an example of a way low-density polyethylene can be used as a packaging
Pasta packets
List the five advantages of using plastic as a packaging
Moisture-proof
Cheap to produce
Lightweight, does not increase transport costs
Can be durable and strong e.g. PET
Can be printed on, does not need additional labelling
List the two disadvantages of using plastic as a packaging
The reuse of PET bottles can be dangerous as they break down over time and release dioxins that may be carcinogenic
Some plastics are easily damaged e.g. polystyrene can tear
What makes PET dangerous?
It breaks down over time and releases dioxins that may be carcinogenic
What two characteristics of plastics do not negatively impact the environment?
They are recyclable
They are reusable
What three characteristics of plastics do negatively impact the environment?
They are non-biodegradable
They can be dangerous to animals
They are made form crude oil which is limited and non-renewable
Plastics are recyclable, what impact does this have on the environment?
This reduces greenhouse gas emissions, pollution and landfill, and conserves raw materials
Give an example of a way that plastics can be reused
Plastic bottles can be reused as plant pots
How can plastics be dangerous to animals
The careless disposal of plastics can be dangerous for animals as they could suffocate on plastic bags
