Question 1: Define the term 'polymer' and explain how polymers are formed.

Answer: A polymer is a large molecule composed of many repeated subunits called monomers. Polymers are formed through a chemical process called polymerisation, where monomers are linked together to create long-chain molecules.

Question 2: List three common types of polymers and give a typical use for each.

Answer: 1. Polyethylene – used in plastic bags and bottles. 2. Polypropylene – used in food containers and textiles. 3. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – used in pipes and window frames.

Question 3: Describe two advantages and two disadvantages of using polymers in manufacturing.

Answer: Advantages: 1. Lightweight and versatile. 2. Resistant to corrosion and chemicals. Disadvantages: 1. Can be non-biodegradable, causing environmental issues. 2. Often made from non-renewable resources, contributing to resource depletion.

Question 4: Design Brief: You need to create a lightweight, durable, and cost-effective container for storing liquids in a school setting. Which polymer would you choose and why?

Answer: A suitable choice would be polyethylene because it is lightweight, durable, and inexpensive. It also has good chemical resistance, making it ideal for storing liquids safely.

Question 5: Sketch a simple design for a reusable plastic water bottle. Label key features such as the cap, body, and handle.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a cylindrical or slightly contoured bottle with a screw-on cap at the top, a handle attached to the side for easy carrying, and a smooth surface for grip.

Question 6: Explain the difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, including how each type responds to heat.

Answer: Thermoplastics can be melted and remoulded multiple times without changing their properties, making them recyclable. Thermosetting plastics, once heated and shaped, undergo a chemical change that makes them hard and rigid; they do not soften upon reheating.

Question 7: Identify two environmental concerns associated with the use of polymers and suggest one way to mitigate each concern.

Answer: Concerns: 1. Non-biodegradability leading to pollution. Mitigation: Promote recycling and use biodegradable polymers. 2. Resource depletion from fossil fuels used in production. Mitigation: Develop and use bio-based or recycled polymers.

Question 8: Plan a simple recycling process for polymer waste generated in a school workshop. Describe each step.

Answer: Steps include: 1. Collection of polymer waste in designated bins. 2. Sorting waste by type of polymer. 3. Cleaning and drying the waste materials. 4. Shredding or melting the waste for remanufacturing. 5. Moulding or remanufacturing into new products.

Question 9: Identify and describe one safety consideration when working with heated polymers in a workshop.

Answer: Always wear appropriate protective equipment such as heat-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent burns and eye injuries from hot materials or molten polymers.

Question 10: Imagine you are designing a new toy that needs to be flexible, shatterproof, and environmentally friendly. Which polymer(s) could you consider, and why?

Answer: Consider using biodegradable elastomers or bioplastics like PLA (polylactic acid) blended with flexible polymers. These materials offer flexibility, are less harmful to the environment, and can be safely disposed of or composted.