Why is research into synthetic biopolymers attracting great interest?
(A) They decompose more easily than traditional synthetic polymers - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 2
Why is research into synthetic biopolymers attracting great interest?
(A) They decompose more easily than traditional synthetic polymers.
(B) They can be produced ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Why is research into synthetic biopolymers attracting great interest?
(A) They decompose more easily than traditional synthetic polymers - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
A) They decompose more easily than traditional synthetic polymers.
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Answer
This statement highlights a key advantage of synthetic biopolymers over traditional synthetic polymers. Biopolymers are derived from natural sources and often possess the capability to degrade more rapidly under environmental conditions, which reduces pollution and waste.
Step 2
B) They can be produced more cheaply than traditional synthetic polymers.
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In many cases, biopolymers can be sourced from renewable materials, potentially lowering production costs when compared to traditional synthetic polymers that rely on finite resources.
Step 3
C) They have superior physical properties compared to traditional synthetic polymers.
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Biopolymers can exhibit enhanced physical traits such as flexibility, tensile strength, and thermal properties, making them suitable for a variety of applications.
Step 4
D) They have superior chemical properties compared to traditional synthetic polymers.
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The chemical properties of biopolymers often lend themselves to specialized applications, such as biocompatibility in medical devices, which can be a significant benefit over conventional synthetic materials.
