Polymerisation

A repeat unit for poly(propene) is shown .Explain why poly(propene) is a saturated hydrocarbon.

• Its part of the alkene homologous series

• The molecule contains only single C–C bonds

• The molecule contains only double C=C bonds

State the bond angle around each carbon atom in poly(propene).

• 109.5°

• 104°

• 120°

• 110°

        After polymers have been used for packaging, the waste polymers need to be processed to save resources, for example, by recycling. What other ways in which waste poly(propene) can be processed in a sustainable way?

• Combustion for energy production (alternative to fossil fuels)

• Used as an organic feedstock

• Used to make margarine by hydrogenation of a the double bond

• Can be used to make ethanol through the a hydration reaction

Phenylethene, C₆H₅CH=CH₂, undergoes addition polymerisation. Which is the correct balanced equation for the addition polymerisation of phenylethene.

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Answer explanation

The balanced equation must show the formation of the polymer not just the repeat unit of the polymer.

This means:

• - the left hand side (reactants) of the equation will have the monomer unit with n to signify many units

• - then you add an arrow to show the reaction moving from the reactants to the product

• - finally, on the right hand side (products) you should draw a diagram of the repeat unit which MUST have brackets and an n to signify a large number of repeats

Identify the monomer that would give rise to this section of addition polymer.

• E-But-2-ene

• Z-But-2-ene

• Methylpropene

• Propene

Select the correct repeat unit of the addition polymer that can be formed from this compound.

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Which civilisation are believed to have been among the first to find an application for polymers?

• The Incas

• The Bugandans

• The Mayans

• The Aztecs

The repeat unit of an addition polymer is shown below. What is the monomer?

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Select the image which shows poly(tetrafluroethene)

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