SPM Chemistry

Self Assess 4.3 – Chemistry Form 5 Chapter 4 (Polymer)


Question 1:
What is meant by synthetic rubber?

Answer:
A polymer that is elastomeric in nature or elastic polymer.


Question 2:
Surgical gloves can be manufactured by using natural rubber or synthetic rubber.

(a) Name a synthetic rubber that can be used to manufacture surgical gloves.

(b) How are the characteristics of natural rubber surgical gloves different from those produced by using synthetic rubber?


Answer:
(a) Nitrile rubber

(b) More resistant to oil and solvent.


Question 3:
“Synthetic rubber lasts longer and is difficult to decompose naturally”.

Justify the use of synthetic rubber in manufacturing various items.


Answer:
– Synthetic rubber is more resistant towards heat and abrasion to allow products such as tyres to be manufactured.

– Synthetic rubber is hard to decompose naturally and can cause pollution.

– Synthetic rubber needs to be disposed of systematically so that pollution can be prevented.