Understanding Polymers and Their Reactions

What are polymers made of?

• Small units called monomers

• Large molecules called macromolecules

• Railroad cars

• Petroleum oil

What does the prefix "poly" mean in the word "polymer"?

• One

• Many

• Parts

• Small

What are proteins polymers of?

• Simple sugars

• Amino acids

• Nucleotides

• Isoprene

Which of the following is NOT a natural polymer found in living things?

• Cellulose

• Keratin

• Nylon

• Chitin

What are the two most common types of reactions used to make synthetic polymers?

• Oxidation and reduction reactions

• Acid-base reactions and precipitation

• Addition and condensation reactions

• Combustion and decomposition reactions

What is the primary difference between addition reactions and condensation reactions in polymer formation?

• Addition reactions require heat, while condensation reactions do not.

• Condensation reactions produce a small molecule like water, while addition reactions simply add monomers together.

• Addition reactions form stronger bonds than condensation reactions.

• Condensation reactions only occur with natural polymers.

Who is credited with creating the first synthetic plastic, Bakelite?

• Leo Baekeland

• Thomas Edison

• Marie Curie

• George Washington Carver

What is a major environmental concern associated with plastics like Styrofoam?

• They are too heavy to transport.

• They are highly flammable.

• They release toxic substances and do not biodegrade.

• They are difficult to mold into shapes.