Question

Give one example of each of the following:
(i) Synthetic polymer
(ii) Condensation polymer

Hint:

Condensation polymers involve the elimination of small molecules during their formation, whereas addition polymers do not.

Answer 1

(i) Synthetic Polymer:
A synthetic polymer is a polymer that is artificially made by polymerizing small monomer units through chemical processes. Example: Polyethylene (used in plastic bags). Polyethylene is made by polymerizing ethylene (C₂H₄) monomers.
(ii) Condensation Polymer:
A condensation polymer is formed by the reaction between two different monomers, resulting in the elimination of a small molecule like water or alcohol. Example: Nylon-6,6 (used in fabrics). It is made by condensation polymerization of hexamethylene diamine and adipic acid, releasing water as a by-product.