Disposal of addition polymers
3 marks · EasyState one reason why addition polymers remain in landfill sites for many years.
Name one environmental problem that can result from the accumulation of waste addition polymers.
Give one advantage of recycling addition polymers instead of disposing of them in landfill.
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(a) Their strong covalent bonds make them very slow to break down (non-biodegradable).
(b) They cause pollution or take up space in landfills.
(c) Recycling saves raw materials and reduces environmental pollution.
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Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · States addition polymers remain because they do not biodegrade or break down slowly due to strong bonds.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Names a valid environmental problem (eg. pollution, harm to wildlife, visual blight, taking up space).
B1 (c) · 1 mark · Gives an advantage of recycling (e.g., saves raw materials, reduces landfill, reduces pollution).
Worked solution
a: Addition polymers stay in landfill for a long time because their strong covalent bonds make them non-biodegradable.
b: Accumulation of waste polymers can cause pollution or harm to wildlife.
c: Recycling reduces the need for new raw materials and helps reduce environmental impact.