Flashcards · 9701 · AS Topic 20

Polymerisation (AS Level) flashcards

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Addition polymerisation: Many alkene monomers join by opening their C=C double bonds to form one long chain. The polymer is the only product.
Steps for drawing the repeat unit of an addition polymer: Open the C=C to a single bond; draw the two backbone carbons with their groups; extend a bond from each end through the brackets; write n outside.
Repeat unit of poly(propene): –[CH₂–CH(CH₃)]ₙ–
A polymer chain is …–CH₂–CCl₂–CH₂–CCl₂–… Deduce the monomer.: Repeat unit –CH₂–CCl₂–, so the monomer is CH₂=CCl₂ (1,1-dichloroethene).
Why are poly(alkenes) non-biodegradable?: The C–C backbone is non-polar and unreactive, with no bonds that enzymes or water can attack.
Incineration of polymers: advantage and disadvantage: Advantage: releases energy and reduces volume. Disadvantage: produces CO₂; burning PVC releases toxic HCl.