on this cheat sheet
Everything on the GCSE Chemistry Addition & Condensation Polymers poster is written out below, section by section. Use it to search the sheet, copy parts into your own notes, or check a fact quickly.
Addition Polymerisation
- Many small alkene monomers join end to end.
- The C=C double bond breaks open and forms single bonds with neighbouring monomers.
- No atoms are lost – the polymer contains the same atoms as the monomers.
Example: many ethene molecules → poly(ethene).
Common addition polymers
| Polymer | Uses |
|---|---|
| Poly(ethene) | Plastic bags, bottles |
| Poly(propene) | Ropes, crates |
| Poly(chloroethene) (PVC) | Drainpipes, window frames |
| PTFE | Non-stick coatings |
Condensation Polymers
Monomers with two functional groups join, releasing a small molecule (usually water) each time a bond forms.
Polyesters
A diol (–OH groups) reacts with a dicarboxylic acid (–COOH groups) to form ester linkages.
- Two ester linkages form per repeat unit, so the by-product is 2nH₂O.
Polypeptides (proteins)
Amino acids have an amino group (–NH₂) and a carboxyl group (–COOH) on the same molecule. They join by condensation to form polypeptides (proteins are one or more polypeptide chains).
- One amide linkage forms per bond, releasing nH₂O.
Disposal Issues
- Most synthetic polymers are non-biodegradable, so they build up in landfill.
- Burning can release toxic gases (for example HCl from PVC, CO from incomplete combustion).
- Plastic waste accumulates in oceans.
- Biodegradable polymers and recycling reduce environmental impact.