synthetic polymers Flashcards
what are polymers?
large molecules of high relative molecular mass
how are polymers made?
linking large numbers of monomers
what is the process of creating polymers called?
addition polymerisation
how are monomers bonded?
covalently
what do polymerisation reactions require?
a catalyst and high pressure
what is a synthetic polymer?
a manufactured polymer, e.g. polystyrene
polymers form ____ bonds only
single
addition polymers are chemically…
inert, so not biodegradable
why cant addition polymers be incinerated?
produces CO2
what is a difference between addition and condensation polymerisation?
condensation polymerisation produces water, addition does not
what is a diol?
an alcohol containing two hydroxide groups in its molecule
how are condensation polymers formed?
dicarboxylic acid and a diol react
what is a dicarboxylic acid?
a carboxylic acid with COOH on both ends of the molecule
what are biopolyesters?
polyesters that are biodegradable
