9701 · 35.1
Condensation polymerisation flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9701 Condensation polymerisation (syllabus 35.1). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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What is condensation polymerisation?
A polymerisation reaction where monomers join together with the elimination of a small molecule (e.g., H₂O or HCl) for each link formed.
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What is the key difference between addition and condensation polymerisation?
In addition polymerisation, the empirical formula of the monomer and polymer are the same. In condensation polymerisation, a small molecule is lost, so the empirical formula is different.
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What two types of functional groups are required to form a polyester?
A carboxylic acid group (–COOH) and a hydroxyl group (–OH). These can be on two different monomers (a dicarboxylic acid and a diol) or on one monomer (a hydroxycarboxylic acid).
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What is the name of the linkage in a polyester?
An ester linkage: –COO–.
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Name the monomers used to produce the polyester Terylene (PET).
Ethane-1,2-diol and benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid (terephthalic acid).
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What two types of functional groups are required to form a polyamide?
A carboxylic acid group (–COOH) and an amine group (–NH₂). These can be on two different monomers (a dicarboxylic acid and a diamine) or on one monomer (an amino acid).
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What is the name of the linkage in a polyamide?
An amide linkage: –CONH–. In the context of biochemistry, this is called a peptide bond.
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Name the monomers used to produce the polyamide Nylon 6,6.
1,6-diaminohexane and hexanedioic acid. The '6,6' signifies that both monomers contain six carbon atoms.
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What is a common mistake when drawing the repeating unit of a condensation polymer?
Forgetting to remove the atoms that form the small molecule (e.g., -OH from the acid and -H from the alcohol/amine) before forming the new bond. Also, failing to show the bonds extending through the brackets.
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Why do polyamides like Nylon and Kevlar have high tensile strength?
Their long, straight chains can align closely, allowing for the formation of strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the polar N-H group of one chain and the C=O group of an adjacent chain.