Chapter 27, Problem 36PP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structure of paraformaldehyde need to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

Polymerization is a reaction in which the monomers are reacted to give polymers.  If the monomers considered are of two different types then four types of polymer can be formed.  If the monomers are of same molecule then only one type of polymer is formed.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The functional group of paraformaldehyde need to be identified.

Concept introduction:

Polymers can be distinguished based on the functional group it has in the structure.  The monomer considered for forming the polymer determines the functional group in the polymer.  Few examples are,

• Acid +alcohol=polyester
• Acid+amine=polyamide
• Alcohol+phosgene=polycarbonate
• Alcohol+isocyanate=polycarbamate
• Aldehyde= polyether

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The polymer type of paraformaldehyde need to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Polymers can be classified as chain-growth and step-growth polymers.  Chain-growth polymers are the one which are formed when monomer is added to the other monomer growing chain one at a time.  This growing polymer chain usually has only one reactive site.  This site is called growth point.  Step-growth polymers are the one when the monomers react with each other to form oligomers.  These oligomers are joined together to form polymers.  This usually occurs when difunctional monomers are used.  This has got two growth points.

(d)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The polymer type of paraformaldehyde need to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Polymers can be classified as addition polymer and condensation polymer. Addition polymers are the one which are formed without the loss of any small molecules.  Usually compounds with vinylic bonds involve in addition polymerization.  Condensation polymers are the one which are formed with the loss of small molecules such as water, ammonia etc.