Using resources

Polymers are used to make fabrics. Table 1 shows some properties of two polymers. Polymer fabrics are used to make firefighter uniforms. Complete Table 2 by deciding for each property whether polymer J or polymer K is best for firefighter uniforms. Use Table 1. Density has been completed for you. Select the best option for the other three properties.

Polymers J and K are made from crude oil. In the past, firefighter uniforms were made from wool. Wool is obtained from sheep. Why are many fabrics made from polymers instead of wool?

Why is wool more sustainable than polymers J and K for making firefighter uniforms?

Copper is obtained from copper ores or by recycling copper. - Copper ores are non-renewable. - Copper ores can be obtained by mining. - Some scrap copper goes to landfill sites. Give three reasons why we should use recycled copper instead of copper from copper ores.

Table 4 gives some information about disposable cups. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of using coated paper and poly(styrene) to make disposable cups. Use Table 4 and your knowledge and understanding of life cycle assessments (LCAs).

This question is about gases. Figure 10 shows how nitrogen is used in the Haber Process to produce ammonia. Gas X in Figure 10 is obtained from methane. Name gas X.

This question is about ammonia and nitric acid. In the Haber process ammonia is produced from nitrogen and hydrogen. Figure 1 represents the Haber process. Pipe P links the condenser to the reactor. Why is the condenser linked to the reactor?

Which metal is used as a catalyst in this reaction?

Ammonia and nitric acid react to produce the salt, ammonium nitrate. Ammonium ions and nitrate ions both contain nitrogen. Suggest one use of ammonium nitrate.

Water collected from rivers is used in the home for drinking and flushing toilets. Water used in the home must be potable. Potable water is safe to drink. Waste water produced after use in the home is called sewage. Figure 3 shows how water is collected from rivers and returned to rivers after use. Explain what happens to water in Process A and in Process B in Figure 3. Do not refer to use of water in the home.

This question is about materials used to make bicycles. Table 3 shows information about two materials used to make bicycle frames. Evaluate the use of aluminium alloy and of bamboo for making bicycle frames. Use Table 3.

Explain why aluminium alloy bicycle frames do not need protection from corrosion.

Bicycle chains are made from an alloy of iron. Bicycle chains rust without protection. Paint is not used to protect bicycle chains from rusting. Suggest how bicycle chains can be protected from rusting.

Bicycle frames can also be made from a composite of carbon fibres embedded in a polymer resin. What description is given in this composite to: • the carbon fibre component • the polymer resin component?