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Introduction to Polymers

Polymers are large molecules composed of many identical subunits called monomers. They play a crucial role in both natural biological systems, like DNA and proteins, and in human-made materials such as plastics. Understanding polymers is essential in Chemistry.

10 practice questions with detailed explanations

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Practice Questions

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1

Which of the following best describes why biodegradable polymers are considered more environmentally friendly compared to traditional plastics?

Biodegradable polymers are designed to be broken down by microbes into harmless natural molecules. Other options are incorrect because Many biodegrada...

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2

Which statement accurately distinguishes between synthetic and natural polymers while considering their thermal properties?

Synthetic thermoplastics, such as polypropylene, soften when heated and then harden again when cooled. Other options are incorrect because The idea th...

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3

Which polymerization method would be most suitable for creating a polymer used in flexible packaging, considering the desired properties of flexibility and strength?

The method joins monomers together without removing anything, keeping the chain very long and smooth. Other options are incorrect because Many think c...

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4

Which type of polymer would be most appropriate for manufacturing a durable yet lightweight component in the automotive industry?

Thermoplastic elastomers act like rubber but can be melted and re-shaped like plastic. Other options are incorrect because A common mistake is to thin...

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5

When exposed to elevated temperatures, which type of polymer can be reshaped and will return to its original form once cooled?

Thermoplastics have a structure that lets them melt when heated. Other options are incorrect because Thermosets are cross‑linked; Biodegradable polyme...

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6

What is the primary reason that polymers can exhibit such a wide variety of physical properties?

How monomers are linked and how they bond determines how the chains fit together. Other options are incorrect because The belief is that a bigger poly...

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7

Which of the following materials is classified as a natural polymer?

Rubber comes from the sap of rubber trees, which is a living plant. Other options are incorrect because People may think nylon looks like plastic, but...

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8

A toy manufacturer is developing a new line of biodegradable toys made from a polymer derived from natural sources. Which of the following statements best explains how the structure of this polymer differs from traditional petroleum-based plastics?

The polymer is made from monomers that microbes can recognize and break apart. Other options are incorrect because Some people think a polymer with fe...

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9

Monomers are to polymers as amino acids are to what?

Proteins are long chains made from amino acids. Other options are incorrect because People often think DNA or RNA uses amino acids, but they are built...

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10

Which of the following best describes the relationship between monomers and polymers?

A polymer is created by linking many monomers together. Other options are incorrect because The misconception is that monomers are bigger molecules ma...

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