Question

Polymer formation from monomers starts by:
A.Condensation reaction between monomers
B.Coordination reaction between monomers
C.Conversion of monomers to monomer ion by protons
D.Hydrolysis of monomers.

Answer 1

Polymers are molecules which are formed by the repetition of molecules known as monomers. Polymers are macromolecules and they have high molecular mass. Polymers are classified on the basis of mode of polymerisation into addition polymers and condensation polymers which result in the formation of polymers.

Complete step-by-step answer: Polymers are macromolecules which have high molecular mass. They are formed by the repetition of a molecule in a chain which is known as the monomer which is repeated to form the polymer. The process of formation of a polymer is known as polymerisation. Polymers are categorised on the basis of difference between their source, molecular forces between them, their structure, mode of polymerisation.
The mode of polymerisation is classified as addition polymers and condensation polymers.

Addition polymers: These polymers are formed by the repeated addition of the standard molecule which is known as the monomer which forms the polymer. Addition polymers have double and triple bonds. If the monomer used for polymerisation is a single species then the addition polymers are known as homopolymers like polythene and if the monomers are of two different species then the addition polymers are known as copolymers like Buna-S.

Condensation polymers: These polymers are formed by repeated condensation reactions of the bi and tri-functional monomers. In this process small molecules are eliminated like water, alcohol and others. Polymers such as nylon-6,6 is formed by repeated condensation reactions and are considered as condensation polymers.
For the above question among the given options, we know that polymer formation takes place through the process of repeated addition of monomers or when monomers undergo repeated condensation reaction and small molecules are removed.
Thus, the correct option is (A) Condensation reaction between monomers starts the process of polymerisation.

Note: Polymers are also classified on the structure of polymers into linear polymers which are long straight chains such as high density polythene, branched chain polymers which are polymers which have branches like low density polythene and cross linked polymers which are formed by strong covalent bonds between linear polymers.