Chapter 31, Problem 31.56P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The structure of the polymer formed on reaction of $p$-cresol with ${\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}=\text{O}$ is to be drawn. The validation of the fact that the properties of the polymers formed with $p$-cresol with ${\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}=\text{O}$ and phenol with ${\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}=\text{O}$ are different is to be stated with an explanation.

Concept introduction: In Step-growth polymerization the monomers with different functional groups combine together to form the polymer with the loss of small molecule such as water. For example polyamides, polyesters, polyurethanes, polycarbonates and epoxy resins.

The polymers which can be melted and moulded to different shapes on heating are thermoplastic polymers. The highly crossed linked polymers which cannot be melted and moulded to different shapes are thermosetting polymers.