Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 22: Problem 4

Describe the two major mechanisms of organic polymer synthesis.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The two major mechanisms of organic polymer synthesis are polymerization and condensation reactions. Polymerization is the process where small molecules, or monomers, combine into polymers, usually via a repetitive chain reaction induced by heat, light, or a catalyst. Condensation reactions are where monomers or oligomers with two or more reactive groups react to form a longer polymer chain, eliminating a small molecule in the process.

Step by step solution

01

Explanation of Polymerization

Polymerization is the process where small molecules, also known as monomers, combine into larger structures known as polymers. This is typically achieved via the process of adding monomers with unsaturated bonds (double or triple bonds) together, instigating a repetitive chain reaction. This process predominantly takes place under the influence of heat, light, or a catalyst. An example of this is the synthesis of polyethene from ethene monomers, which takes place in the presence of a catalyst and under high pressure.
02

Explanation of Condensation Reactions

Condensation reactions, also known as step-growth polymerization, is the other mechanism for organic polymer synthesis. In this process, monomers or oligomers with two or more reactive groups react to form a longer polymer chain. During this process, a small molecule such as water, ammonia, or hydrogen chloride is eliminated. An example of this is the synthesis of nylon from diamine and dicarboxylic acid. In this reaction, water is the small molecule that is eliminated.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

If untreated, fevers of \(104^{\circ} \mathrm{F}\) or higher may lead to brain damage. Why?

Briefly explain the phenomenon of cooperativity exhibited by the hemoglobin molecule in binding oxygen.

Discuss the characteristics of an amide group and its importance in protein structure.

When deoxyhemoglobin crystals are exposed to oxygen, they shatter. On the other hand, deoxymyoglobin crystals are unaffected by oxygen. Explain. (Myoglobin is made up of only one of the four subunits, or polypeptide chains, in hemoglobin.)

When fruits such as apples and pears are cut, the exposed parts begin to turn brown. This is the result of an oxidation reaction catalyzed by enzymes present in the fruit. Often the browning action can be prevented or slowed by adding a few drops of lemon juice to the exposed areas. What is the chemical basis for this treatment?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

Organic Chemistry

Read Explanation

Kinetics

Read Explanation

Making Measurements

Read Explanation

Nuclear Chemistry

Read Explanation

The Earths Atmosphere

Read Explanation

Physical Chemistry

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free