Bonding in Polymers

• What are polymers made of?

  Polymers are made by joining together thousands of small identical molecules called monomers.
• Why are polymers considered very large molecules?

  Because they consist of thousands of monomer units joined together.
• What is the process of forming a polymer from monomers?

  • Monomers are joined together
  • Thousands of identical monomers combine
  • A polymer is formed
• What is the name of the polymer formed from ethene?

  The polymer formed from ethene is called polyethene.
• What type of bond is present between carbon atoms in alkene monomers?

  Alkene monomers have a double covalent bond between the carbon atoms.
• What type of bond is present between carbon atoms in polymers?

  Polymers have single covalent bonds between the carbon atoms.
• Why are covalent bonds in polymers considered strong?

  Covalent bonds in polymers are extremely strong, contributing to the stability of the polymer structure.
• What is a repeating unit in a polymer?

  • Represents the structure of the polymer
  • Shows a single covalent bond between carbon atoms
  • Extends out of brackets on either side
  • Indicates a large number of repeating units with 'n'
• What do the brackets in the repeating unit of a polymer signify?

  The brackets indicate that the repeating unit extends out in both directions.
• What does the lowercase 'n' represent in the context of polymers?

  The lowercase 'n' represents a large number of repeating units in the polymer.
• Why are most polymers solids at room temperature?

  • Intermolecular forces of attraction between polymer molecules are relatively strong
  • Breaking these forces requires a lot of energy
  • High melting point results in solid state at room temperature
• What are intermolecular forces in the context of polymers?

  Intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction acting between polymer molecules.
• What is the significance of the strength of intermolecular forces in polymers?

  Strong intermolecular forces result in high melting points, keeping polymers solid at room temperature.