Chapter 13, Problem 13.70P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structure of the polymer of methyl a-methyl acrylate needs to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Polymers are macromolecules which are composed of a large number of small repeating units. These repeating units are called monomers and the process of formation of polymers from monomer units is called polymerization.

On the basis of type of polymers, polymerization reaction can be two types; addition polymerization and condensation polymerization. The addition polymerization occurs between monomer units with unsaturated bonds between carbon atoms. For example; polymerization of alkene leads to the formation of polyalkenes.

Condensation polymerization occurs with those monomers which have some functional groups like −OH, -COOH, -NH_2, etc. These polymerizations occur with the elimination of small molecules such as H₂O, CO, and CO₂, etc.