Polymers are everywhere! But are oil-based polymers sustainable? Introduce your organic chemistry class to common materials formed from polymers, such as nylon, kevlar, and styrofoam. The video includes a discussion of the hazards of disposing of non-recycled plastics, as well as the search for biodegradable polymer options.

Concepts

organic chemistry, polymers, biodegradability, recycling, plastic, styrofoam

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• The video makes a great introduction to polymers and their many uses
• Provide examples of common polymers for the class to examine

Classroom Considerations

• A quick review of common functional groups before viewing the resource will help with understanding the concept

Pros

• Animations incorporate polymer structures with their common functions
• The video focuses on recycling and reinforces the concept that polymers are rooted in crude oil fractions

Cons

• None