Polymer molecules are made by joining large numbers of small molecules (monomers) together. (a) The table shows some information about three polymers and the monomers used to make them. Complete the table. name of polymer structure of polymer molecule name of the monomer used to make the polymer molecule structure of monomer molecule poly(ethene) propene poly(chloroethene) (b) The structure of the polymer poly(tetrafluoroethene), PTFE, is State why this polymer is not a hydrocarbon. (c) Poly(chloroethene), PVC, is used to make gutters and drainpipes. One property of poly(chloroethene) is that it is easy to shape. Describe other properties of poly(chloroethene) that make it suitable for gutters and drainpipes. (d) Waste is often disposed of by putting it in landfill sites, by burning or by recycling. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each disposal method, and explain which disposal method should be used for plastic bottles.

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Polymer molecules are made by joining large numbers of small molecules (monomers) together - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2012 - Paper 1

Question 6

Polymer molecules are made by joining large numbers of small molecules (monomers) together. (a) The table shows some information about three polymers and the monome... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Polymer molecules are made by joining large numbers of small molecules (monomers) together - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2012 - Paper 1

Step 1

Complete the table.

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Answer

Poly(ethene):
- Structure of polymer:
$[ -C_2H_4- ]_n$
- Monomer: Ethene
- Structure of monomer:
$H_2C=CH_2$
Poly(propene):
- Structure of polymer:
$[ -C_3H_6- ]_n$
- Monomer: Propene
- Structure of monomer:
$H_2C=CH-CH_3$
Poly(chloroethene):
- Structure of polymer:
$[ -C_2H_3Cl- ]_n$
- Monomer: Chloroethene (or Vinyl Chloride)
- Structure of monomer:
$H_2C=CHCl$

Step 2

State why this polymer is not a hydrocarbon.

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Answer

Poly(tetrafluoroethene), PTFE, is not a hydrocarbon because it contains fluorine atoms in addition to carbon and hydrogen. Hydrocarbons are strictly composed of carbon and hydrogen only.

Step 3

Describe other properties of poly(chloroethene) that make it suitable for gutters and drainpipes.

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Poly(chloroethene) is resistant to weathering and does not corrode, making it ideal for outdoor use. It is also strong and durable, which allows it to withstand the pressure of water flow. Additionally, its smooth surface reduces friction, facilitating easier water flow.

Step 4

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each disposal method, and explain which disposal method should be used for plastic bottles.

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Answer

Advantages and Disadvantages of Disposal Methods:

Landfill:
- Advantages:
  - Simple and cheap way to dispose of waste.
- Disadvantages:
  - Takes up space and can lead to pollution.
  - Long decomposition time.
Burning:
- Advantages:
  - Reduces volume of waste significantly
  - Can generate energy from waste.
- Disadvantages:
  - Releases harmful emissions into the atmosphere which can affect air quality.
  - Contributes to global warming.
Recycling:
- Advantages:
  - Conserves resources and reduces pollution.
  - Reduces landfill waste by reusing materials.
- Disadvantages:
  - Can be expensive to set up and maintain recycling facilities.
  - Not all materials can be easily recycled.

Recommended Method for Plastic Bottles:

Recycling is the recommended method for disposing of plastic bottles because it helps reduce environmental impact, conserves natural resources, and minimizes the amount of waste in landfills.

Polymer molecules are made by joining large numbers of small molecules (monomers) together - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2012 - Paper 1

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Polymer molecules are made by joining large numbers of small molecules (monomers) together - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2012 - Paper 1

Complete the table.

State why this polymer is not a hydrocarbon.

Describe other properties of poly(chloroethene) that make it suitable for gutters and drainpipes.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each disposal method, and explain which disposal method should be used for plastic bottles.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Disposal Methods:

Recommended Method for Plastic Bottles:

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