Polymers

Question 1

How are condensation polymers made?

Answer 1

Combining monomers together to form an extending chain and releasing a small molecule.

Question 2

How many small molecules are released when joining monomers together?

Answer 2

(n - 1)

n = number of monomers

Question 3

How do you form polyamides/polyesters in addition reactions?

Answer 3

Ring opening

Question 4

How do you know if it is an addition polymer?

Answer 4

Monomer has C=C or triple bond
* No small molecule is lost *
Continual carbon chain (normally)
Strong C-C chain so not biodegradable

Question 5

How do you know if it is a condensation polymer?

Answer 5

Monomer has 2 functional groups.
2 monomers -> each monomer has different functional groups.
* Small molecule lost *
Not a continual carbon chain, normally ester/amide link.
Can hydrolyse ester/amide link so biodegradable.

Question 6

How does recrystalisation work?

Answer 6

Impure solid - dissolve in minimum hot solvent - hot solution - cool solution in ice bath - filter - wash solid - COLD solvent - leave to dry.

Question 7

When do you use recrystalisation?

Answer 7

To purify an impure solid