Quiz on Polymers

Approximately how many tonnes of polymer are used in the UK each year?

• 1 million tonnes

• 3 million tonnes

• 5 million tonnes

• 7 million tonnes

What is the main source of synthetic polymers?

• Natural gas

• Crude oil

• Coal

• Water

What are the two main types of polymers?

• Thermoplastic and thermosetting

• Synthetic and natural

• Organic and inorganic

• Hard and soft

What happens to thermoplastic polymers when they are heated?

• They become softer and flexible

• They become harder and brittle

• They decompose

• They evaporate

What is a characteristic of thermosetting polymers?

• They can be reshaped when heated

• They do not soften or melt when heated

• They are typically flexible and tough

• They are used in car bodies and boats

What is the role of air pressure in vacuum forming?

• To heat the plastic

• To cool the plastic

• To shape the plastic

• To mix the plastic

From what are synthetic polymers usually made?

• Natural rubber

• Synthetic rubber

• Plastic granules

• Metal

Name two stock forms in which thermoplastic polymers are available.

• Sheets and rods

• Sheets and liquids

• Rods and gases

• Liquids and gases

What is the main material used in the vacuum-forming process?

• Metal sheet

• Plastic sheet

• Rubber sheet

• Wood sheet

What is a common characteristic of biodegradable polymers?

• They are derived from petroleum

• They decompose naturally in the environment

• They are resistant to heat

• They are used in electronic devices