Chapter 15, Problem 31P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The monomer which gives greater yield polymer, $\text{5-hydroxypentanoic}\text{acid}$ or $\text{6-hydroxyhexanoic}\text{acid}$ has to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Polymers:

Monomers combine together to form polymers. Monomers are the repeating units of small molecules which link together to form polymers and the process is called as polymerization.

Two types of polymers:

• Synthetic and biopolymers.
• DNA is an example for biopolymer and these type of polymers are synthesized by cells.
• Polymers synthesized by scientists are called synthetic polymers and some examples are nylon, polyester etc.

Two types of synthetic polymers:

• Chain-growth polymers or addition polymers and Step-growth polymers or Condensation polymers.
• Chain growth polymers are formed by the monomer addition to the end of a growing chain.
• Step-growth polymers are formed by combining monomers by removing small molecules of water or alcohol.