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This question is about polymers - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
This question is about polymers. (i) State a problem with recycling polymers. (ii) Describe a problem associated with the disposal of polymers. (b) Poly(chloroeth... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:This question is about polymers - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
State a problem with recycling polymers.
Answer
One problem with recycling polymers is the need to sort them into different types. For efficient recycling, polymers must be separated from other materials, which can be time-consuming and costly. Often, there is a requirement to wash the polymers before they can be recycled, and not all polymers are recyclable.
Step 2
Describe a problem associated with the disposal of polymers.
Answer
A significant issue related to the disposal of polymers is that they can persist in landfill sites for an extended period. Many polymers are not biodegradable, meaning they do not decompose easily. Additionally, the combustion of polymers can produce harmful gases, posing a risk to environmental health.
Step 3
Step 4
Draw a section of a poly(chloroethene) molecule containing three repeating units, showing all bonds.
Answer
The section of a poly(chloroethene) molecule with three repeating units can be represented as follows:
H H H H H H
| | | | | |
H - C - C - C - C - C - C - H
| | | | | |
Cl Cl Cl Cl Cl Cl
Each repeating unit consists of a -C-C- bond where one carbon atom is bonded to a chlorine atom.