Polymers

Question 1

CONDENSATION POLYMERISATION

Answer 1

The joining of monomers with the elimination of a small molecule such as water.

Question 2

Joining a carboxylic acid and an alcohol to form a (poly)ester

Answer 2

RCOOH + ROH → RCOOR + H₂O

Question 3

Why are biodegradable polymers increasing in importance?

Answer 3

• Biodegradable polymers break down completely into H₂O and CO₂
• Reduce landfill waste
• Addition polymers release toxic gases when burned

Question 4

Joining a carboxylic acid and an amine to form a (poly)amide

Answer 4

RCOOH + RNH₂ → RCONHR + H₂O

Question 5

Uses of Polyesters and Polyamides

Answer 5

Fibres in clothing

Question 6

BIODEGRADABLE POLYMER

Answer 6

A polymer that breaks down completely into CO₂ and H₂O

Question 7

DEGRADABLE POLYMER

Answer 7

A polymer that breaks down into smaller fragments when exposed to light, heat or moisture

Question 8

Acid Catalysed Hydrolysis of Polyesters

Answer 8

Reagent: HCl(aq)
Conditions: Reflux
HOROH + HOOCRCOOH

Question 9

Alkaline Catalysed Hydrolysis of Polyesters

Answer 9

Reagent: NaOH(aq)
Conditions: Reflux
HOROH + Na⁺O⁻OCRCOO⁻Na⁺

Question 10

Acid Catalysed Hydrolysis of Polyamides

Answer 10

Reagent: HCl(aq)
Conditions: Reflux
H₃N⁺RNH₃⁺ + HOOCRCOOH

Question 11

Alkaline Catalysed Hydrolysis of Polyamides

Answer 11

Reagent: NaOH(aq)
Conditions: Reflux
H₂NRNH₂ + Na⁺O⁻OCRCOO⁻Na⁺