Problems with Polymers Quiz
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5 questions, one answer each
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1. What does biodegradable mean?
- A. Able to conduct electricity
- B. Able to be broken down naturally by microorganisms
- C. Able to melt when heated
- D. Able to dissolve in water
2. Why are most conventional polymers a problem for waste disposal?
- A. They are highly reactive and dangerous to store
- B. They are not biodegradable, so they persist in landfill and as litter
- C. They dissolve in rainwater and pollute rivers
- D. They cannot be transported safely
3. What material has been mixed with, or used to fully replace, conventional plastic to make it more biodegradable?
- A. Cornstarch
- B. Bromine water
- C. Limestone
- D. Sulfuric acid
4. Why can a cornstarch-based plastic break down more easily than a conventional polymer?
- A. It is a metal alloy
- B. It contains ionic bonds that hydrolyse in water
- C. It comes from plant material that microbes can digest
- D. It has a lower melting point
5. A company switches from pure polyethene bags to bags made from polyethene mixed with cornstarch. What is the main environmental benefit of this change?
- A. The bags will conduct electricity
- B. The bags will break down more easily, reducing persistent waste
- C. The bags will become stronger and more reusable
- D. The bags will no longer be flammable