Polymers

What was a key driver for historical polymer innovation in the 19th century?

• Rarity and expense of elephant ivory

• Abundance of natural resources

• Discovery of new metals

• Advancements in digital technology

What are polymers formed from?

• Crystals

• Monomers

• Ions

• Atoms

How does chain length affect polymer properties?

• Long chains decrease viscosity

• Short chains increase strength

• Long chains increase strength and viscosity

• Short chains enhance durability

What is the impact of cross-linking in polymers?

• Increases recyclability

• Enhances durability and heat resistance

• Decreases mechanical strength

• Reduces thermal stability

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-6

Which process involves the sequential addition of monomers without byproducts?

• Condensation polymerization

• Addition polymerization

• Crystallization

• Sublimation

What is a characteristic of condensation polymerization?

• Small molecules like water are eliminated

• It requires high temperatures

• It only occurs in natural polymers

• No byproducts are formed

How can chemists create polymers with different properties?

• By altering the pressure

• By substituting atoms or functional groups on a monomer

• By using different catalysts

• By changing the temperature

What is an example of a natural polymer?

• Polyethylene

• PVC

• DNA

• PTFE

What role do biopolymers play in living organisms?

• They are used for energy storage only

• They are only found in plants

• They carry genetic information and provide structural support

• They are primarily used for insulation

What is a modern challenge in polymer innovation?

• Developing materials that harm the environment

• Creating polymers that are non-functional

• Balancing human needs with environmental sustainability

• Increasing the cost of production

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-4

NGSS.HS-ETS1-1

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-7