Condensation Polymerisation (GCSE Chemistry)

Condensation Polymerisation

Condensation Polymerisation

  • Condensation polymerisation is a type of polymerisation. In condensation polymerisation, monomers will join together to form polymers. This means that condensation polymerisation is another type of polymerisation.
  • Two different monomers are repeated. In the process of condensation polymerisation, two monomers with different functional groups are used as the repeating unit. Each monomer has the same  respective functional group on either end of the molecule. The repeating unit of the polymer will have the same atoms as the monomer.
  • Two products are formed. At the end of the condensation polymerisation reaction, two products are formed. These are the polymer chain and water. The water is formed when the two monomers join together.
  • Using a general equation. There is a general equation for the condensation polymerisation between diols and dicarboxylic acids. It can be represented by this diagram:
GCSE Chemistry - Condensation Polymerisation
GCSE Chemistry – Condensation Polymerisation
  • Understanding the general equation. When they polymerise, the –OH group from the carboxylic acid bond breaks from the C atom, as shown by the red line in the diagram above. The O-H bond from the alcohol breaks apart, also shown by a red line. The H from the alcohol and the OH from the carboxylic acid join to make water.
  • Where the monomers join. Removing the water molecule between the monomers, allows the O from the alcohol and the C=O to bond together, shown by the blue bond.
  • Why are there two moles of water? One mole of water is produced from the bond where the bond in the repeating unit joins, but also there is one mole of water molecule formed from the end of the monomers.

Representing Condensation Polymers

  • Polyester is a condensation polymer. An example of a condensation  polymer is polyester, which is formed from ethane diol and hexanedioic acid. Water is also formed in this reaction.
  • The functional groups of the monomer stay the same. When polymerisation occurs, each repeating unit of the polymer contains a functional group from each monomer.
GCSE Chemistry - Condensation Polymerisation
GCSE Chemistry – Condensation Polymerisation
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Worked example: Draw the two  monomers which have been used to produce the condensation polymer, nylon.

GCSE Chemistry - Condensation Polymerisation
GCSE Chemistry – Condensation Polymerisation

Answer:

  1. Identify where both molecules join together. This will be where the label “amide link” occurs.
  2. Separate the molecules where they join.
  3. Two moles of water have been removed. This is from where the molecules join and at either end of the  polymer. The OH will come from the carboxylic acid group COOH, and the H must come from an – NH2 group on the other monomer.
  4. One monomer molecule will have two carboxylic acid functional groups at either end.
  5. The other monomer molecule will have two NH2 functional groups at either end.
  6. Draw the functional groups. Copy the atoms within the molecule identically as shown in the repeating unit.
GCSE Chemistry - Condensation Polymerisation
GCSE Chemistry – Condensation Polymerisation

 

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→What is condensation polymerization?

Condensation polymerization is a type of chemical reaction in which two small molecules join together to form a larger molecule, releasing a small molecule like water or alcohol in the process.

→How does condensation polymerization work?

Condensation polymerization occurs when two small molecules, called monomers, react with each other and release a small molecule like water or alcohol. The reaction causes the monomers to bond together, forming a polymer. This process repeats itself many times, building up the polymer chain until it becomes a large, complex molecule.

→What are some examples of polymers made through condensation polymerization?

Examples of polymers made through condensation polymerization include nylon, polyester, and polycarbonate. These polymers are often used in products like clothing, packaging, and electronics.

→What is the difference between condensation polymerization and addition polymerization?

Condensation polymerization is different from addition polymerization because in addition polymerization, the monomers do not release a small molecule during the reaction. Instead, they simply bond together to form a polymer chain.

→What is the importance of condensation polymerization in industry?

Condensation polymerization is important in industry because it is used to make a variety of products, including textiles, plastics, and packaging materials. These products are widely used in our daily lives, making condensation polymerization a critical aspect of modern manufacturing processes.

→What is the role of a catalyst in condensation polymerization?

A catalyst can help to speed up the reaction rate in condensation polymerization, making the process more efficient. Catalysts can also help to control the properties of the polymer, making it stronger, more flexible, or more heat-resistant, depending on the desired application.

→Can condensation polymerization be controlled to produce different types of polymers?

Yes, condensation polymerization can be controlled to produce different types of polymers with different properties. This is achieved by adjusting the conditions under which the reaction takes place, such as the type of monomers used, the reaction temperature, and the presence of a catalyst. By controlling these factors, scientists can produce polymers with specific properties for a variety of applications.

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