2 x 1 hour lessons

This module introduces the chemistry of polymers formed from alkenes and other monomers. You’ll begin by looking at addition polymers, formed from alkenes, and learn how to identify repeating units and draw polymer structures from given monomers (and vice versa).

You’ll then study condensation polymers, including polyesters and polyamides, which form from monomers with two functional groups. The module also explores the types of intermolecular forces in polymers and how they influence physical properties such as melting point and flexibility.

By the end of this module, you’ll be able to:

• Draw repeating units of addition and condensation polymers

• Identify the monomers used to form a given polymer

• Compare addition and condensation polymerisation

• Understand how intermolecular forces affect polymer properties

OCR (A) specification points covered: 4.1.3 Alkenes 6.2.3 Polyesters and polyamides