# Poly(ethene) is made from ethene by a process called addition polymerisation. Describe what happens to ethene molecules during addition polymerisation and explain why the product, poly(ethene), cannot undergo addition reactions in the same way that ethene can.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 10.2 Alkenes (Chem only) · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Many ethene monomers join together (to form a long-chain polymer)
2. The double bond in ethene opens/breaks during polymerisation
3. Poly(ethene) contains only single carbon-carbon bonds (no C=C double bonds)
4. Addition reactions require a C=C double bond (so poly(ethene) cannot react in this way / is saturated)

## Key terms

- [addition polymerisation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/addition-polymerisation)
- [polymer](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/polymer)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/poly-ethene-is-made-from-ethene-by-4066a3bc) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.