Understanding Polymers: From Nature to Synthetics

What is a polymer?

• A small molecule used in chemical reactions

• A synthetic coloring agent

• A large molecule made from monomers

• A type of natural rubber

Which of the following is a natural polymer?

• Bakelite

• Cellulose

• PVC

• Polyethylene

What type of reaction produces a small molecule like water?

• Reduction reaction

• Condensation reaction

• Substitution reaction

• Addition reaction

Who was the chemist that saw potential in what was thought to be a useless by-product?

• Albert Einstein

• Marie Curie

• Leo Baekeland

• John Dalton

What was the accidental invention during World War II that led to a bouncy putty?

• Teflon

• Kevlar

• Silly Putty

• Nylon

Which polymer is identified as a possible carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency?

• Nylon

• Polyester

• Acrylic

• Styrene

What is the environmental issue with plastics like Styrofoam?

• They release oxygen into the atmosphere

• They do not biodegrade

• They are too expensive to produce

• They dissolve too quickly

Which property is NOT associated with polymers?

• Strength

• Bounciness

• Fragility

• Ability to conduct electricity