Low density Polyethene

 

 

The animation above shows polymerisation of ethene to form low density polyethene. Under certain conditions side branching occurs on the polymers. Such side branching does not allow the polymers to get close to each other where the dispersion forces are at their strongest. The force of attraction therefore is very weak. The plastic formed from low density polyethene has a low melting point, is easily moulded and its low density makes it buoyant in water.

You should be familiar with low density polyethene as it is widely used in the kitchen under the trade name of GladWrap.