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In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 2
In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate. Metals and thermosetting p... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the structure of a metal
Answer
Metals consist of closely packed atoms, typically arranged in a regular pattern or lattice structure. The positive ions of the metal are surrounded by a sea of delocalized electrons, which contribute to their conductive properties. This structure allows the layers of atoms to slide over each other, making metals malleable and ductile.
Step 2
Describe the structure of a thermosoftening polymer
Answer
Thermosoftening polymers are composed of long chains of molecules that can be tangled but do not have extensive cross-links between them. This lack of cross-links allows the polymer to be flexible and to change shape when heated. The chains can slide over one another, contributing to the polymer's properties.
Step 3
Explain the properties of a metal
Answer
Metals exhibit several key properties due to their structure. They are shiny and conduct electricity or thermal energy due to the presence of delocalized electrons. Their tightly packed structure allows high tensile strength and gives them a high melting point and boiling point. Additionally, metals can be bent and shaped without breaking, owing to the sliding nature of their layers.
Step 4
Explain the properties of a thermosoftening polymer
Answer
Thermosoftening polymers are generally flexible and can be easily molded when heated. They have lower densities compared to metals and a lower melting/boiling point. Because the chains do not have significant cross-linking, they can slide over each other when heat is applied, allowing the material to reshape. However, they are poor conductors of electricity and thermal energy compared to metals.