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AQA GCSE · Question 03.1 · 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 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.
How to approach this question
For each property, consider what would be best for a firefighter's uniform.
1. **Melting point:** Firefighters are exposed to high temperatures. Would a high or low melting point be better? Look at Table 1 and choose the polymer with the better property.
2. **Flame resistance:** This is crucial for safety. Would good or poor flame resistance be better? Choose the corresponding polymer.
3. **Water absorption:** Firefighters get wet. Would it be better for the uniform to absorb a lot of water (getting heavy) or not much water? Choose the polymer with the better property.
Full Answer
To determine the best polymer for a firefighter uniform, we need to consider the demands of the job:
- **Density:** Lower density (Polymer J) is better as it makes the uniform lighter and less tiring to wear. (This was already completed in the question).
- **Melting point:** A high melting point is essential to protect the firefighter from heat. Polymer K has a much higher melting point (260 °C vs 165 °C), so it is better.
- **Flame resistance:** The uniform must not catch fire easily. Polymer K has 'Good' flame resistance, while Polymer J is 'Poor'. Polymer K is the clear choice.
- **Water absorption:** A uniform that absorbs a lot of water becomes very heavy and cold. Low water absorption is better. Polymer J has 'Low' water absorption, making it the better choice for this property.
Common mistakes
✗ Choosing low melting point. A low melting point would be dangerous in a fire.
✗ Choosing high water absorption. A waterlogged uniform would be extremely heavy.
✗ Misreading the table.
Practice the full AQA GCSE Chemistry Foundation Tier Paper 2
60 questions · hints · full answers · grading
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