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Polymers (A-level only)
This A-level-only topic extends polymer chemistry to condensation products and disposal issues.
4
Objectives
10
Flashcards
10
Questions
88 min
Study time
AqaA LevelChemistryOrganic chemistry
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Syllabus checklist
What you need to know
4 objective pages available
Polymerisation and polymer properties (A-level only)4 objectives
- Identify addition and condensation polymerisation reactions.
- Draw repeating units and monomers for polyesters and polyamides.
- Explain hydrolysis of condensation polymers.
- Discuss disposal and biodegradability of polymers.
Key terms
MonomerPolymerRepeating unitHydrolysisCondensation PolymerBiodegradable polymersNon-biodegradable polymers
Exam tips
- Understand the Differences: Make sure to clearly distinguish between addition and condensation polymerisation in your answers.
- Practice drawing structures: Regularly practice drawing the structures of monomers and repeating units to reinforce your understanding.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Addition and Condensation Polymerisation: Remember that addition polymerisation does not involve the loss of any small molecules, while condensation polymerisation does.
- Incorrectly identifying the repeating unit: Ensure that the repeating unit reflects the structure of the polymer formed, including all necessary linkages.
Practice preview
- Which of the following is a characteristic of addition polymerisation?
- Describe the process of condensation polymerisation and provide an example of a polymer formed through this process.
- A chemist synthesizes a polymer through addition polymerisation using 10 g of ethene (C2H4). Calculate the mass of the polymer formed if the degree of polymerisation is 1000.
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