Polymers Flashcards
Describe a polymer
Many small monomer that have joined together to make long chains
What type of bonding holds the atoms together in a polymer?
Covalent
What causes polymers to have different structures?
They are formed under different conditions, e.g. different temperature or pressure.
Describe the structure of HDPE (high density polyethene)
Long, straight chains (no branches) that can pack closely together
Describe the structure of LDPE (low density polyethene)
Long, branched chains that can’t pack closely together
Explain why a thermosoftening plastic can be remoulded when heated
The chains have weak forces between them so they can slide over each other
Explain why a thermosetting plastic can not be remoulded, even when heated.
The chains have strong cross-links between them which stops them from sliding over each other
