Earth's oceans -> plastic

What is Plastic?

Plastic is a synthetic material made from polymers, which are long chains of molecules. These polymers are derived from petrochemicals and are molded or shaped into various forms to create a wide range of products.

Types of Plastic

There are several types of plastics, including:

• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
• Polystyrene (PS)
• Polyurethane (PU)

Properties of Plastic

Plastic exhibits various properties such as:

• Flexibility
• Durability
• Lightweight
• Resistance to chemicals
• Insulation
• Transparency (in some types)

Uses of Plastic

Plastic is used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Packaging materials
• Construction materials
• Consumer goods (e.g., toys, household items)
• Medical devices
• Automotive parts
• Electronics

Environmental Impact

While plastic offers many benefits, its disposal and accumulation in the environment have raised concerns due to its non-biodegradable nature. Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to ecosystems and wildlife.

Study Guide

1. Define plastic and explain its composition.
2. List and describe at least three types of plastic.
3. Discuss the properties of plastic and provide examples of products that demonstrate these properties.
4. Identify at least three common uses of plastic in everyday life.
5. Explain the environmental impact of plastic and discuss potential solutions to address plastic pollution.

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