Question 9(b)
[Maximum number: 2]
There are two types of polymerisation, addition and condensation.
Some plastics, formed by polymerisation, are non-biodegradable.
Describe two pollution problems that are caused by non-biodegradable plastics.
CAIE IGCSE Chemistry 11.8.5 Environmental challenges caused by
Practise describing landfill, ocean accumulation and burning problems caused by non-biodegradable plastics in polymer contexts.
How this is tested
- describe how non-biodegradable plastics cause landfill space and leaching problems
- link ocean plastic accumulation to animal ingestion or entanglement
- explain why burning plastics can release toxic gases and cause pollution