Bonding & StructureMedium Exam FrequencyAQA

Polymers

Revise Polymers in Bonding & Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should be part of a solid GCSE revision cycle.

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The Chain Gang

Introduction 2

How Polymers Are Made: Addition Polymerisation

Deep Dive 3

Addition Polymerisation of Ethene

Diagram 4

How It Works: Why Monomers Join Together

How It Works 5

Thermosoftening vs Thermosetting Polymers

Comparison 6

Key Definitions

Definitions 7

Key Facts to Memorise

Key Facts 8

Common Misconceptions

Misconceptions 9

Memory Aids

Memory Aid 10

Exam Focus

Exam Focus 11

Exam Tips for Polymers

Exam Tips 12

Topic Summary: Polymers

Summary

Sample Flashcards

What is a polymer?

A large molecule made of many small repeating units (monomers) joined by covalent bonds

What is a monomer?

A small molecule that joins with others to form a polymer

Sample Questions

In addition polymerisation, what feature of monomer molecules allows them to join together?

A. A carbon-carbon double bond that opens to form new bonds
B. A hydroxyl (-OH) group that reacts with an amine group
C. A carboxyl (-COOH) group that loses a water molecule
D. A free electron that forms a new covalent bond

1 markfoundation

Explain why thermosetting polymers are rigid and do not melt when heated.

2 marksstandard

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