Environmental Impact of Addition Polymers

The video discusses the environmental effects of addition polymers, which are non-biodegradable and derived from non-renewable crude oil. It highlights the problems they cause, such as pollution and harm to wildlife. The video also explores solutions like recycling, combustion, and the development of biodegradable and photodegradable polymers to mitigate these effects.

What is a key characteristic of addition polymers that makes them environmentally concerning?

• They are non-biodegradable.

• They are biodegradable.

• They are highly reactive.

• They are made from renewable resources.

How can addition polymers negatively impact wildlife?

• They provide food for animals.

• They can entangle or be mistaken for food by animals.

• They decompose quickly, leaving no trace.

• They improve the habitat for seabirds.

Why is the use of crude oil in the production of addition polymers problematic?

• Crude oil is not used in polymer production.

• Crude oil is a renewable resource.

• Crude oil is abundant and cheap.

• Crude oil is a non-renewable resource.

What is one method to reduce the environmental impact of addition polymers?

• Combusting them to generate energy.

• Ignoring the problem.

• Using more crude oil.

• Burying them in landfills.

What is a potential downside of combusting polymers like PVC?

• It requires no energy.

• It is a renewable process.

• It releases harmful chemicals like hydrogen chloride.

• It produces clean energy.

What is feedstock recycling?

• Using polymers as food for animals.

• Burying polymers in landfills.

• Burning polymers for energy.

• Converting waste polymers into simpler hydrocarbons.

What is an advantage of feedstock recycling?

• It increases landfill waste.

• It requires sorting of waste polymers.

• It uses more crude oil.

• It allows conversion of one polymer into another.

What are biodegradable polymers typically made from?

• Synthetic materials.

• Metals.

• Biological materials like plants.

• Non-renewable resources.

What is a characteristic of photodegradable polymers?

• They break down in water.

• They break down in sunlight.

• They are made from metals.

• They are non-degradable.

What is a benefit of biodegradable polymers over addition polymers?

• They naturally break down due to microorganisms.

• They are made from crude oil.

• They are non-reactive.

• They are non-renewable.