IGCSE Chemistry: Polymers Quiz

What are polymers made from?

• Monomers

• Dimers

• Trimers

• Polymers

Answer explanation

Polymers are large molecules formed by linking together many smaller units called monomers. Therefore, the correct answer is monomers, as they are the building blocks of polymers.

What is the process called when monomers link together to form polymers?

• Addition polymerisation

• Condensation polymerisation

• Decomposition

• Synthesis

Answer explanation

The process when monomers link together to form polymers is called addition polymerisation. This involves the direct addition of monomers with unsaturated bonds, resulting in a polymer without the loss of any small molecules.

What type of bonds are formed between monomers in addition polymers?

• Covalent bonds

• Ionic bonds

• Hydrogen bonds

• Metallic bonds

Answer explanation

In addition polymers, monomers are linked by covalent bonds, which involve the sharing of electron pairs between atoms. This strong bond type is essential for forming the stable, long chains characteristic of addition polymers.

What is a key difference between addition and condensation polymers?

• Condensation polymers release water

• Addition polymers are biodegradable

• Condensation polymers are made from one type of monomer

• Addition polymers do not form bonds

Answer explanation

A key difference is that condensation polymers release water during their formation, while addition polymers do not. This process involves the elimination of small molecules, such as water, as byproducts.

What happens to addition polymers in landfill sites?

• They biodegrade

• They are chemically inert

• They dissolve in water

• They are recycled

Answer explanation

Addition polymers are generally chemically inert, meaning they do not easily react with other substances in landfill sites. This contributes to their persistence in the environment, as they do not biodegrade or dissolve in water.

What is the environmental problem associated with addition polymers?

• They are non-biodegradable

• They are too cheap

• They are too light

• They are too reactive

Answer explanation

Addition polymers are non-biodegradable, meaning they do not break down naturally in the environment. This leads to accumulation in landfills and oceans, causing significant environmental harm.

What is produced when condensation polymers are formed?

• Water

• Carbon dioxide

• Oxygen

• Methane

Answer explanation

When condensation polymers are formed, monomers react and release small molecules, typically water. This process is known as condensation, hence the name, and water is the most common byproduct.

What is the process called when a polyester is broken down into its monomers?

• Hydrolysis

• Polymerisation

• Decomposition

• Synthesis

Answer explanation

The process of breaking down a polyester into its monomers is called hydrolysis. This involves the reaction with water, which cleaves the polymer into its constituent monomers, distinguishing it from polymerization, decomposition, or synthesis.

What are biopolyesters made from?

• Alkenes

• Synthetic materials

• Lactic acid from corn starch

• Natural fibers

Answer explanation

Biopolyesters are primarily made from lactic acid, which can be derived from corn starch. This makes 'lactic acid from corn starch' the correct choice, as it highlights the natural source of the biopolyester.

What type of reaction occurs during the formation of addition polymers?

• Redox reaction

• Chain reaction

• Substitution reaction

• Elimination reaction

Answer explanation

The formation of addition polymers occurs through a chain reaction, where monomers add to a growing polymer chain. This process involves repeated steps of initiation, propagation, and termination, distinguishing it from other reaction types.