C11 Organic Chemistry – Alkenes and Polymers

C13.3    Alkenes (unsaturated hydrocarbons):

a. Describe alkenes as a homologous series with a double bond and the general formula $\mathbf{C}_{\boldsymbol{n}} \mathbf{H}_{\mathbf{2} \boldsymbol{n}}$.

b. Be able to name, or recognise from the name, $\mathrm{C}$ $2$ to $\mathrm{C6}$  straight-chain alkenes, including the position of the double bond.

c. Recognise and be able to use the test for unsaturation with bromine water.

d. Know that addition reactions take place with the following substances: hydrogen, halogens, hydrogen halides and steam. Be able to write the balanced chemical equations for these reactions and recognise the formulae of the products formed. (Mechanisms and consideration of carbocation stability are not required.)

C13.4    Polymers:

a.Addition polymerisation, polyalkenes:

1. 1. Know that alkenes or other molecules with a $\mathrm{C=C}$ bond may react with each other to form long-chain saturated molecules called polymers by addition reactions called polymerisation, and that the unsaturated molecules are called monomers.
   2. If given an unsaturated monomer molecule, be able to recognise the structure of the polymer and vice versa.

b. Be able to recognise the repeating unit of these polymers.

1. 1. Condensation polymerisation, polyesters and polyamides (to include amino acids forming proteins):
   2. If given the monomer molecules, be able to recognise the structure of the polymer and vice versa.
   3. Be able to recognise the repeating unit of these polymers.
   4. Understand the terms biodegradable and non-biodegradable when applied to polymers.