Addition and condensation polymerisation

Question 1

Write the addition polymerisation reaction of propene.

Answer 1

Question 2

Give some examples of evidence about monomers/polymer chain that allows you to identify that the polymerisation is condensation.

Answer 2

• If there are two monomers, each with two functional groups, then the polymerisation is condensation.
• If there is one monomer with two different functional groups, then the polymerisation is condensation.
• If the polymer contains amide linkages or ester , then the polymerisation is condensation.

Question 3

What details about a monomer/polymer chain allow you to identify that the type of polymerisation is addition.

Answer 3

• If the monomer contains a double bond, then the polymerisation is addition.
• If the backbone of the polymer is a continuous chain of carbon atoms, then the polymer is likely to have been made by addition and the monomer will be an alkene.