Question

Which of these statements are correct for both addition and condensation polymerization?

1) I. Monomer units chemically bond together
2) II. Product contains all the atoms of the starting material
3) III. A second product, like water, is also formed during the polymerization process

Answer 1

Statement I (monomer units chemically bond together) is correct for both addition and condensation polymerizations. Statement II (product contains all the atoms of the starting material) applies only to addition polymerization, while statement III (a second product, like water, is formed) pertains only to condensation polymerization.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of polymer chemistry, it's crucial to understand the distinctions between addition polymerization and condensation polymerization. Evaluating the statements given for both types of polymerization:

• I. Monomer units chemically bond together: This statement is correct for both addition and condensation polymerizations, where monomer units chemically bond to form polymers.
• II. Product contains all the atoms of the starting material: This statement is correct only for addition polymerization. In this process, the polymer contains every atom from the original monomers without the loss of any atoms.
• III. A second product, like water, is also formed during the polymerization process: This statement is correct only for condensation polymerization, where a small molecule, commonly water, is released as a byproduct.

To summarize, statement I applies to both addition and condensation polymerizations, whereas statements II and III only apply to addition polymerization and condensation polymerization, respectively.