2024 O Level Chem P1 Q38 — Polymers / Polymerisation Solution
Question
The partial structures of two polymers, P and Q, are shown. Which type of polymerisation produces these polymers?
Correct answer: B
Video Solution
Explanation
Answer: B. Inspect each backbone.
Polymer P shows a saturated carbon–carbon backbone with side groups (an ester sidechain). This is the structural fingerprint of an addition polymer, formed when a single C=C monomer (such as methyl 2-methylpropenoate) opens its double bond and links to the next. No small molecule is eliminated.
Polymer Q shows ester linkages (\(-\text{CO}-\text{O}-\)) joining repeat units along the chain. This is the hallmark of a polyester — the chain is built up by condensation between a diol and a diacid, with water eliminated at every linkage.
P = addition; Q = condensation → row B.
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