Question 1: Describe what a polymer is and explain why polymers are commonly used in manufacturing everyday objects.

Answer: A polymer is a large molecule made up of many repeating subunits called monomers. Polymers are used because they are lightweight, versatile, durable, and can be easily moulded into different shapes.

Question 2: List two common types of polymers and give one example of a product made from each type.

Answer: Thermoplastics (e.g., Polypropylene used for food containers) and thermosetting plastics (e.g., Epoxy resin used for adhesives and coatings).

Question 3: Explain the difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics in terms of their properties and how they can be shaped.

Answer: Thermoplastics can be heated and reshaped multiple times without changing their chemical structure, making them recyclable. Thermosetting plastics, once heated and shaped, undergo a chemical change that makes them rigid and cannot be remelted or reshaped.

Question 4: Design Brief: Your task is to create a lightweight, durable container for storing small items, such as beads or buttons. Which polymer might you choose and why?

Answer: A suitable choice would be a thermoplastic like polypropylene because it is lightweight, durable, and easy to mould into containers.

Question 5: Sketch a design for a plastic bottle cap, including the shape and any features that help ensure a good seal. Label your sketch with key features.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a circular cap with a screw thread on the inside edge, a flat top surface, and raised ridges for grip. Labels should include 'screw thread', 'flat top', and 'grip ridges'.

Question 6: Draw a cross-section of a typical thermoplastic polymer structure, indicating the long chains of monomers linked together. Use labels to show the polymer chains and the repeating units.

Answer: A correct cross-section shows long, flexible chains of monomers connected end-to-end, with repeating units visible. Labels should include 'polymer chain', 'monomer', and 'repeating unit'.

Question 7: Outline the environmental concerns associated with the use of polymers and suggest one possible solution to reduce plastic waste.

Answer: Polymers, especially plastics, can persist in the environment, causing pollution and harm to wildlife. One solution is to increase recycling and develop biodegradable plastics.

Question 8: Identify a product in your home that is made from a polymer and describe the specific type of polymer used and its benefits.

Answer: A plastic water bottle is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Benefits include being lightweight, shatter-resistant, and suitable for storing liquids.

Question 9: Create a simple plan for recycling plastic bottles in your school. Include steps to collect, sort, and recycle the bottles.

Answer: Step 1: Place collection bins in common areas. Step 2: Sort bottles by type and clean them. Step 3: Take the bottles to a recycling center. Step 4: Ensure the bottles are processed into new products.

Question 10: Design Brief: You need to produce a protective case for a fragile electronic gadget. Which polymer would you choose and how would you ensure it provides adequate protection?

Answer: A suitable polymer could be a thermoplastic elastomer because it absorbs shocks and is flexible. To ensure protection, the case should be thick enough with cushioned interior features to absorb impacts.