4.45: Understand How to Draw the Repeat Unit of an Addition Polymer, Including Poly(ethene), Poly(Propene),Poly(Chloroethene) and (Poly)Tetrafluoroethene

DRAWING REPEATING UNITS:

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As Polymers are larger compared to other molecules, repeat units are used when displaying their respective formula:

• Change double bond in monomer into a single bond in repeat unit
• Add a bond to each end of the repeat unit

Diagram:

                     Diagram showing the Concept of Drawing a Repeat Unit of a Monomer

REPEAT UNITS OF ADDITION POLYMERS:

POLYMER	REPEAT UNIT	USES
POLY(ETHENE)		- Plastic bag   - Plastic bottles
POLY(PROPENE)		- Food packaging   - Ropes   - Carpets
POLY(CHLOROETHENE)		- Plastic sheets   - Artificial leather   - Drainpipes / gutters   - Insulation on wires
POLY(TETRAFLUOETHENE)		- Cookware (non-stick)   - Pipework