What are the uses of polymers made from alkenes?

Polymers made from alkenes are used in packaging, insulation, clothing, and in the production of plastic goods.

Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating subunits known as monomers. When these monomers are alkenes, the resulting polymers have a wide range of uses due to their versatile properties. Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons, meaning they have a double bond that can be broken to form new bonds, allowing them to join together to form polymers in a process known as polymerisation.

One of the most common polymers made from alkenes is polyethylene, also known as polythene. This is used extensively in packaging due to its lightweight, durable nature and its resistance to moisture. It's used to make everything from plastic bags to bubble wrap and food packaging. Polyethylene is also used in insulation for electrical cables because of its excellent insulating properties.

Another common polymer made from alkenes is polypropylene. This is used in a variety of applications, including clothing, carpets, and plastic goods. It's particularly popular in clothing because it's lightweight, resistant to staining, and can be made into fibres that are comfortable to wear. In addition, polypropylene is used to make a wide range of plastic goods, from food containers to car parts, due to its strength and durability.

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is another polymer made from alkenes. This is used in a wide range of applications, from pipes and window frames to vinyl records. PVC is popular because it's strong, durable, and resistant to both moisture and chemicals.

In summary, polymers made from alkenes are incredibly versatile and are used in a wide range of applications, from packaging and insulation to clothing and plastic goods. Their properties, such as strength, durability, and resistance to moisture and chemicals, make them ideal for these uses.