Chapter 22, Problem 56A

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The monomer for polyethylene needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The monomer units combined together to form polymer in the polymerization reaction. There are two types: addition and condensation polymerization.

Explanation of Solution

The structure of polyethylene polymer is as follows:

From the above structure, it can be seen that the repeating units are:

Thus, the monomer for the given polymer is ethylene.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The monomer for polyethylene terephthalate needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The monomer units combined together to form polymer in the polymerization reaction. There are two types: addition and condensation polymerization.

Explanation of Solution

The structure of polyethylene terephthalate polymer is as follows:

From the above structure, it can be seen that the polymer is formed using two monomers and the formation of polyethylene terephthalate is represented as follows:

Thus, the monomers for the given polymer are dimethyl terephthalate and ethylene glycol.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The monomer for polytetrafluoroethylene needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The monomer units combined together to form polymer in the polymerization reaction. There are two types: addition and condensation polymerization.

Explanation of Solution

The structure of polytetrafluoroethylene polymer is as follows:

From the above structure, it can be seen that the repeating units are:

Thus, the monomer for the given polymer is tetrafluoroethylene.