Use the clues and process of elimination to match unfamiliar chemical structures to their chemical or common names

Five polymers are named in the Education in Chemistry article, Plastic fantastic:

  • Polyisoprene (rubber)
  • Polyvinylchloride (PVC)
  • Cellulose acetate
  • Cellulose nitrate
  • Polyurethane foam

The worksheet provides learners with clues to help them match the named polymers to their structural formula. Polyvinylchloride may already be familiar to 14–16 year olds from their learning on addition polymerisation, but the other structures will not be. Challenge learners to apply their knowledge of elements, bonding and structural formulas to unfamiliar compounds.

 

 

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Ian is the head of chemistry at Winstanley College in the north-west of England. He has been teaching chemistry for over 25 years in the north of England. Ian has a strong focus on the examination aspects of the subject through his teaching.View full profile

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