How breaking a single chemical bond creates the world's plastics
In short: This video breaks down the fundamental chemistry of addition polymerisation. It explains how simple molecules called monomers transform into long, complex chains to create common materials like poly(ethene).
The process begins with alkenes, which are characterized by a carbon-carbon double bond. During addition polymerisation, this double bond breaks, allowing the individual monomers to join together into long continuous chains.
Students will learn how to represent these reactions visually and name the resulting polymers using the 'poly-' prefix combined with the monomer's name. Examples covered include poly(ethene), poly(butene), and poly(chloroethene).
The content is specifically tailored for 2026/27 exams across various boards, including AQA, Edexcel, OCR 21st Century, and OCR Gateway.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: GCSE Chemistry - Addition Polymers & Polymerisation (2026/27 exams)
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/science-gcse-chemistry-addition-polymers-polymerisation-2026-27-exam.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Chemistry · More in Science · Latest · A–Z · All topics
