A marine biology research team investigating oceanic gyres collected water samples containing high concentrations of synthetic addition polymers, such as poly(styrene) and poly(ethene). Unlike natural polymers, these synthetic substances persist in the biosphere for centuries.
Identify two distinct environmental hazards specifically caused by the accumulation and slow degradation of these synthetic polymers in marine ecosystems.
Practise Edexcel GCSE Chemistry Polymers with exam-style questions for Foundation and Higher tier. 100 questions, matched to the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) specification and written in Paper 1 and Paper 2 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.