How to deduce the polymerisation reaction for any alkene
3 marks · EasyTetrafluoroethene is an alkene that can be polymerised to form poly(tetrafluoroethene).
Give the molecular formula of tetrafluoroethene.
Write the repeat unit of poly(tetrafluoroethene) as a formula.
State one use of poly(tetrafluoroethene).
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(a) CF2=CF2
(b) (–CF2–CF2–)n
(c) non-stick coatings OR lining containers for corrosive chemicals
Common mistakes: Incorrect formula; Incorrect repeat unit
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Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correct molecular formula given as CF2=CF2.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Correct repeat unit: (–CF2–CF2–)n.
B1 (c) · 1 mark · States one correct use such as non-stick coating.
Worked solution
a) Molecular formula of tetrafluoroethene: CF2=CF2
b) Repeat unit for the polymer: (–CF2–CF2–)n
c) Use: poly(tetrafluoroethene) is used for non-stick coatings (e.g., Teflon® pans).