Polymers Flashcards
1
Q
What is a polymerisation ?
A
When lots of small molecules (monomers) join together in to a long chain to form one big molecule (polymer)
2
Q
What is an additional reaction ?
A
If the monomers are alkenes, they can join up via an additional reaction
3
Q
Why is disposing addition polymers is difficult?
A
Because they contain many strong covalent bonds which are unreactive
Also they are non-biodegradable can’t be broken down by bacteria
4
Q
What can you do with an addition polymer?
A
Can be burnt to produce energy, but this realises lots of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide)
