polymers and properties of materials

Question 1

polymers

Answer 1

polymers are formed when lots of small molecules called monomers join together - a reaction called polymerisation (normally needs high pressure and a catalyst)

Question 2

forces between monomers

Answer 2

strong covalent bonds hold the atoms together in polymer chains

Question 3

weak intermolecular forces between monomers

Answer 3

when the chains are held together by weak intermolecular forces meaning chains will be free to slide over each other so it can be stretched easily and have a low melting point

Question 4

strong intermolecular forces between monomers

Answer 4

when intermolecular forces are strong there are higher melting points are rigid and cant be stretched as the cross links hold the chains together firmly

Question 5

properties of materials

Answer 5

their properties are down to the structure and bonding in the material
the individual atoms dont have these properties its the type and strength of the bonds in a material that determines its properies