Disposal of addition polymers
2 marks · HardExplain why addition polymers such as poly(propene) persist in the environment for very long periods. Suggest one environmental problem that may result from this persistence.
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Also accept: They are chemically inert because of strong covalent bonds, so microorganisms cannot break them down. This non-biodegradability causes polymers to build up in landfill or in nature, leading to environmental problems such as harm to wildlife or pollution of habitats.
Common mistakes: Stating 'they decompose easily' or confusing with condensation polymers.
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · States that addition polymers do not break down easily because they are chemically inert/have strong covalent bonds/are not biodegradable.
A1 · 1 mark · Names a valid environmental problem caused by this persistence (e.g., accumulation in landfill, harm to wildlife, pollution of habitats).
Worked solution
Addition polymers are very difficult to break down because they are chemically inert and not biodegradable. This means microorganisms cannot decompose them.
As a result, these polymers persist in the environment for many years, causing problems such as accumulation in landfill sites or harm to wildlife when plastics enter natural habitats.