1. Polymers Nat 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

2. What is a polymer?
A large molecule formed by many small units called monomers.

3. Give an example of an natural polymer.
Rubber
Silk
Wool
Starch

4. Give an example of an synthetic ( man-made) polymer.
Nylon
PVC
Polystyrene
Perspex

5. What raw material is used to make most plastics?
Crude oil

6. How are polymers named?
The word ‘ poly ’ goes in front of the monomer name.

7. A plastic which softens o heating and can be reshaped.
What is a thermosetting plastic?
A plastic which softens o heating and can be reshaped.

8. Toxic gases can be produced.
What dangers are associated with burning plastics?
Toxic gases can be produced.

9. A material which decomposes/ breaks down naturally.
What does biodegradable mean?
A material which decomposes/ breaks down naturally.

10. Draw a poly(ethene) molecule showing 3 repeating units.
H H H H H H H H
~ c – c – c – c – c – c – c – c ~
H H H H H H H H

11. What are the two types of polymerisation reactions?
Addition and condensation polymerisation