Polymers Flashcards
What is a polymer?
A polymer is a large molecule composed of repeating structural units called monomers.
True or False: All polymers are synthetic.
False: Polymers can be natural (like proteins and cellulose) or synthetic (like nylon and polyester).
Fill in the blank: The process of forming polymers from monomers is called __________.
polymerization
What are the two main types of polymerization?
Addition polymerization and condensation polymerization.
Which type of polymerization involves the elimination of a small molecule, such as water?
Condensation polymerization.
Give an example of a natural polymer.
Cellulose or proteins.
What is the difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting polymers?
Thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped, while thermosetting polymers cannot be remolded after curing.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of polymers? A) High molecular weight B) Crystalline structure C) Flexibility D) Thermal stability
B) Crystalline structure
True or False: Polymers can exhibit both elastic and plastic behavior.
True
What is a copolymer?
A copolymer is a polymer made from two or more different types of monomers.
Fill in the blank: The repeating unit in a polymer is known as a __________.
monomer
What is the primary use of polyethylene?
It is primarily used in packaging materials, plastic bags, and containers.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a property of elastomers? A) Rigid B) Flexible C) Brittle D) Non-elastic
B) Flexible
What is the significance of the glass transition temperature (Tg) in polymers?
It is the temperature at which an amorphous polymer transitions from a hard, glassy state to a soft, rubbery state.
True or False: All polymers have the same degree of crystallinity.
False: Different polymers can have varying degrees of crystallinity.
What role do plasticizers play in polymers?
Plasticizers are added to polymers to increase their flexibility and workability.
Fill in the blank: __________ polymers have a high degree of crystallinity and are typically rigid.
Crystalline
What is the main component of natural rubber?
Isoprene.
Multiple Choice: Which polymer is commonly used in 3D printing? A) Polystyrene B) Polyvinyl chloride C) Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene D) Polyethylene
C) Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
What is a characteristic feature of biodegradable polymers?
They can be broken down by microorganisms into natural substances.
True or False: Polymers can only be formed through chemical reactions.
False: Polymers can also be formed through physical processes, such as phase separation.
What are thermoplastic elastomers?
They are materials that combine the properties of rubber with the processability of thermoplastics.
Fill in the blank: The main advantage of using polymers in engineering is their __________.
lightweight nature
What is the primary function of a polymer’s backbone?
It provides structural stability and determines the polymer’s properties.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a property of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)? A) High transparency B) Low density C) High rigidity D) Biodegradable
C) High rigidity
