7.2 Synthetic and naturally occurring polymers

• Synthetic polymers are made in a lab.


  True
• Addition polymerization releases water molecules.

  False
• Match the type of polymerization with its property:

  Addition polymerization ↔️ Monomers link directly

  Condensation polymerization ↔️ Releases small molecules
• Nylon is an example of a synthetic polymer.

  True
• In condensation polymerization, monomers release small molecules such as water
• Match the property with the type of polymer:

  Synthetic polymers ↔️ Man-made from crude oil

  Natural polymers ↔️ Derived from living organisms
• Polymers are made of repeating units called monomers.


  True
• Polymers can be either synthetic or naturally occurring.


  True
• Addition polymerization forms long polymer chains.


  True
• Natural polymers are derived from living organisms.


  True
• Polyethylene is waterproof and commonly used in packaging
• Proteins are essential for life and have structural roles.


  True
• Natural polymers are generally more environmentally friendly than synthetic polymers.

  True
• Natural polymers are generally more environmentally friendly because they are biodegradable
• Nylon is a synthetic polymer that is strong, elastic, and abrasion resistant
• Proteins are natural polymers that are strong, flexible, and essential for life
• Match the type of polymer with its definition and example:

  Synthetic polymers ↔️ Made in a lab; polyethylene, nylon

  Naturally occurring polymers ↔️ Found in nature; proteins, DNA, cellulose
• Condensation polymerization forms polymers with repeating units.


  True
• Polyethylene is an example of a polymer formed through addition polymerization.

  True
• Summarize the key differences between addition and condensation polymerization:

  1️⃣ Monomers link directly in addition polymerization

  2️⃣ Monomers release small molecules in condensation polymerization

  3️⃣ Long polymer chains are formed in addition polymerization

  4️⃣ Polymers with repeating units are formed in condensation polymerization
• Synthetic polymers are produced through the polymerization of small repeating units called monomers
• Proteins are naturally occurring polymers made from amino acids.


  True
• Starch is easily digestible and stores energy in plants.


  True
• Natural polymers are biodegradable.


  True
• Match the synthetic polymer with its properties and uses:

  Polyethylene (PE) ↔️ Lightweight, flexible, waterproof ||| Packaging, plastic bags, bottles

  Polypropylene (PP) ↔️ Strong, heat-resistant, rigid ||| Carpets, ropes, automotive parts

  Polystyrene (PS) ↔️ Rigid or expanded foam, lightweight ||| Disposable cups, packaging, insulation

  Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ↔️ Durable, versatile, weather-resistant ||| Pipes, window frames, wire insulation

  Nylon ↔️ Strong, elastic, abrasion-resistant ||| Clothing, carpets, engineering parts
• Match the natural polymer with its properties and uses:

  Proteins ↔️ Strong, flexible, essential for life ||| Structural components, enzymes, antibodies

  DNA ↔️ Stores and transmits genetic information ||| Genetic material in living organisms

  Cellulose ↔️ Rigid, fibrous, insoluble in water ||| Structural material in plant cell walls, textiles

  Starch ↔️ Energy storage, easily digestible ||| Food, thickening agent
• Natural polymers are generally biodegradable and derived from living organisms
• Polymers can be either synthetic or naturally occurring
• Steps in addition polymerization:

  1️⃣ Monomers link together

  2️⃣ Long polymer chains form

  3️⃣ No smaller molecules are released
• Condensation polymerization releases small molecules such as water
• What type of polymerization creates long polymer chains?

  Addition polymerization
• Polyvinyl chloride is used in wire and cable insulation
• Polymers are large molecules made up of small repeating units called monomers
• Match the type of polymerization with its description:

  Addition Polymerization ↔️ Monomers join without releasing small molecules

  Condensation Polymerization ↔️ Monomers link and release small molecules
• Synthetic polymers are man-made polymers created in labs or industrial processes and derived from crude oil
• Which type of polymer is typically biodegradable?

  Natural
• What is the monomer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)?

  Vinyl chloride
• Which environmental concern is associated with synthetic polymers?

  Non-biodegradability
• What is the primary difference between synthetic and natural polymers?

  Origin and biodegradability
• What is the key property of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)?

  Durable and weather-resistant