Chapter 23.4, Problem 29LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : To know how water is involved in condensation polymer.

Concept Introduction :

A polymer is a material whose molecular structure is composed primarily or entirely of many connected units of a similar nature.

Answer to Problem 29LC

Water is generally formed when two monomers combine in condensation polymerization, monomers react with each other to form larger products. This is the reason why water is a byproduct of condensation polymerization.

Explanation of Solution

Condensation polymerization is a process that is used for combining smaller molecules to form a bigger product. During this polymerization process water will be given out as a byproduct. Two monomers will combine with the elimination of the water molecule to form the condensation polymers.

  

In the above example, the hydrogen from the ethane diol and the OH group from the hexane dioic acid will be removed as water molecules in order to form the ester linkage that results in the formation of the polyester polymer.

Conclusion

During condensation polymerization, covalent bonds of the two monomers will be combined together to form polymers. During this process water molecule is eliminated; therefore, water is given as a byproduct during the bond formation of polymers.