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Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry (h) Synthetic polymers Question Bank

Practise polymer equations, repeat-unit drawings, monomer links, disposal problems and polyester formation from suitable monomers.

Syllabus
First assessment 2019
Course
Chemistry 4CH1

Exam points

  • draw repeat units or monomers from displayed formulae, using brackets, n and extension bonds where needed
  • compare monomer and polymer properties by chain length, C=C bonds and state of matter
  • explain disposal issues for polymers in landfill or by burning, using stated environmental effects

Covered syllabus points

4.44 Addition polymer formation4.45 Addition polymer repeat units4.46 Monomers and repeat units4.47 Addition polymer disposal4.48C Polyester formation4.49C Polyester formulae4.50C Biodegradable polyesters

(h) Synthetic polymers question 1

[Maximum number: 9]

This question is about alkenes and polymers.

Question (a)

(a)

Ethene is used to make poly(ethene).

[ 8 ]

Question (i)

(i)

State the type of polymerisation used to form poly(ethene).

[ 1 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Complete the equation for the polymerisation of ethene.

Figure for Question (ii) — Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry
[ 2 ]

Question (iii)

(iii)

Poly(ethene) is used to make plastic bags.

Corn starch from plants can also be used to make polymers for plastic bags.
The table gives some information about poly(ethene) and polymers made from corn starch.

Table for Question (iii) — Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry

Use the information in the table and your knowledge to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using poly(ethene) to make plastic bags.

[ 5 ]

Question (b)

(b)

The diagram shows the repeat unit of another polymer.

Figure for Question (b) — Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry

Draw the displayed formula of the monomer used to make this polymer.

[ 1 ]

(h) Synthetic polymers question 2

[Maximum number: 3]

The table shows the structures of six organic compounds.

Table for Question (h) Synthetic polymers question 2 — Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry

Question (a)

(a)

Compound E is used to make an addition polymer.

[ 3 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Complete the equation to show part of the polymer formed from two molecules of compound E.

Figure for Question (i) — Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry
[ 2 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Give one problem caused by the disposal of addition polymers.

[ 1 ]
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