Define polymers as large molecules built from small units (monomers).
Describe the formation of poly(ethene) as an example of addition polymerization using ethene monomers.
Deduce the structure of the polymer product from a given alkene and vice versa.
Identify the repeat units and/or linkages in addition polymers and in condensation polymers.
Describe and draw the structure of:
nylon, a polyamide
PET, a polyester
Explain the differences between condensation and Addition polymerization.
Definitions
Poly- means many.
-mer means part/segment.
Mono means one.
Monomer: Small molecules that can join to make a polymer.
Polymer: Large molecules made of many repeated small molecules.
Polymerization: The process of monomers joining to form a polymer.
Addition Polymers
Alkenes (monomers with double bonds) under high temperature, high pressure, and a catalyst break their double bonds and convert them into single bonds.
Carbon atoms bond with each other, allowing thousands of ethene molecules to join, forming a long-chain molecule.