Polymers — GCSE Chemistry Revision
Revise Polymers for GCSE Chemistry. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to Ionic BondingWhat is Polymers?
Polymers are large molecules made up of many small, repeating units called monomers. They can be natural (like DNA) or synthetic (like poly(ethene)). The properties of a polymer depend on the monomer it's made from and the conditions under which it is made.
Board notes: Polymers are a major topic in organic chemistry. All boards expect you to understand the concept of monomers and polymers, be able to draw repeating units for addition polymers, and know the uses of some common polymers. Condensation polymerisation is typically a higher-tier topic.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
The monomer ethene (CH₂=CH₂) can be polymerised to form the polymer poly(ethene). The double bond in each ethene molecule breaks, and the molecules join together to form a long saturated chain: -[CH₂-CH₂]n-.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing monomers and polymers. A monomer is a single unit; a polymer is a long chain of monomers.
- 2Not being able to draw the repeating unit of a polymer from its monomer, or vice versa. Remember to break the double bond in the monomer to form the single bonds in the polymer chain.
- 3Forgetting the names of common polymers and their uses, such as poly(ethene) for plastic bags and PVC for window frames.
Polymers exam questions
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Polymers
Core concept
Polymers are large molecules made up of many small, repeating units called monomers. They can be natural (like DNA) or synthetic (like poly(ethene)). The properties of a polymer depend on the monomer …
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between addition and condensation polymerisation?
In addition polymerisation, monomers add to each other in such a way that the polymer contains all the atoms of the monomer unit. In condensation polymerisation, a small molecule, such as water, is eliminated each time a monomer unit is added.
Are all plastics polymers?
Yes, all plastics are polymers, but not all polymers are plastics. The term 'plastic' refers to synthetic polymers that can be moulded or shaped.