Disposal of addition polymers

4 marks · Normal

Poly(ethene) is one of the most commonly used addition polymers. It is widely used for packaging, which leads to large amounts of waste.

(a)

State what is meant by a non-biodegradable material.

[1 mark]

(b)

Describe two reasons why the accumulation of addition polymers such as poly(ethene) in landfill can be a problem for the environment.

[2 marks]

(c)

Suggest one way to reduce the amount of poly(ethene) waste entering landfill sites.

[1 mark]

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(a) A non-biodegradable material cannot be broken down by bacteria or other living organisms.

(b) 1. They take up space for a very long time because they are not broken down. 2. They can pollute the environment or harm animals if plastics spread from landfill.

Common mistakes: Defining biodegradable rather than non-biodegradable; Stating vague problems for landfill such as 'it is bad'

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 (a) · 1 mark · Defines non-biodegradable: cannot be broken down by bacteria or living things.

B2 (b) · 1 mark · States one problem: e.g., takes up space for years/does not decompose in landfill.

B3 (b) · 1 mark · States a second valid problem: e.g., can cause pollution/harm to wildlife or leaching of plastics/chemicals.

B4 (c) · 1 mark · Suggests method to reduce waste entering landfill: e.g., recycling, reducing use, reusing, or using alternatives that are biodegradable.

Worked solution

a) A non-biodegradable material is one that cannot be broken down by bacteria or other living things.

b) (1) Addition polymers like poly(ethene) accumulate and take up space in landfill for many years because they do not decompose. (2) They can cause environment pollution if they leak into the surroundings, or wildlife may be harmed if animals eat or get tangled in the plastic.

c) One way to reduce poly(ethene) waste is to recycle it rather than send it to landfill.