Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Polymerisation

Polymerisation — practice question

(a(i))[1]

Give an example of a synthetic polyester and of a synthetic polyamide.

(a(ii))[1]

Polyesters and polyamides are produced by condensation reactions. Name a molecule that is usually removed in these reactions.

(b(i))[2]

The table gives the repeat units of several polymers. Put a tick (✓) beside those that are biodegradable.

(b(ii))[2]

Draw the structures of two monomers that are used to make polymer B.

(c(i))[1]

After a section of polypeptide was hydrolysed, the amino acids identified were: T: $\text{CH}_3\text{CH(NH}_2\text{)CO}_2\text{H}$, U: $\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_2\text{CH(NH}_2\text{)CO}_2\text{H}$, V: $\text{H}_2\text{N(CH}_2)_4\text{CH(NH}_2\text{)CO}_2\text{H}$. Which of the amino acids T, U or V has the highest pH in aqueous solution? Explain why.

(c(ii))[1]

State how many different dipeptides could be formed from a reaction mixture containing amino acids T and U.

(c(iii))[2]

Polypeptides have a high proportion of carbon and hydrogen in their structures, yet many dissolve in water. By referring to polypeptide structure, explain why.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Polyester: Terylene / PLA; Polyamide: nylon / Kevlar / Nomex.

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI