Chemistry C2 - Polymers

Forces between Molecules determine the Properties of Plastics

-strong covalent bonds hold the atoms together in long chains. But its the bonds between this different molecule chains that determine the properties of plastic. 

WEAK FORCES - Individual tangled chains of polymers, held together by weak intermolecular forces. They're free to slide over eachother. 

STRONG FORCES - Some plastics have stronger intermolecular forces between the polymer chains (crosslinks) that hold the chains firmly together. 

THERMOSOFTENING POLYMERS - dont have cross-linking between chains. Forces between the chains are easy to…