(h) Synthetic polymers

Know that an addition polymer is formed by joining up many small molecules called monomers

Understand how to draw the repeat unit of an addition polymer, including poly(ethene), poly(propene), poly(chloroethene) and (poly)tetrafluoroethene

Understand how to deduce the structure of a monomer from the repeat unit of an addition polymer and vice versa

Explain problems in the disposal of addition polymers, including:

• their inertness and inability to biodegrade
• the production of toxic gases when they are burned.

Know that condensation polymerisation, in which a dicarboxylic acid reacts with a diol, produces a polyester and water

Write the structural and displayed formula of a polyester repeat unit from its monomers, including ethanedioic acid reacting with ethanediol.

Know that some polyesters, known as biopolyesters, are biodegradable