Summary
Condensation polymerisation is a process where monomers join together, eliminating small molecules like water, to form polymers such as polyesters and polyamides. Polyesters are formed using diols and dicarboxylic acids, while polyamides are created from diamines and dicarboxylic acids or dioyl dichlorides, forming amide links. Proteins are natural polymers made from amino acids through condensation reactions, and can be broken down by hydrolysis.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Condensation Polymerisation: A process where monomers join, eliminating small molecules like water.
- Polyester: A polymer containing ester linkages, formed from diols and dicarboxylic acids.
- Polyamide: A polymer containing amide links, formed from diamines and dicarboxylic acids.
- Hydrolysis: The breakdown of proteins into amino acids by cleaving amide bonds.
Common Confusions
- Confusing condensation polymerisation with addition polymerisation.
- Misidentifying the expelled small molecule during polymerisation.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is condensation polymerisation? It is a process where monomers join, eliminating small molecules like water.
- How is a polyester formed? By reacting a diol with a dicarboxylic acid, eliminating water.
- What is the role of hydroxycarboxylic acids in polyester formation? They contain both functional groups needed for polymerisation in one molecule.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding the difference between condensation and addition polymerisation.
- Ability to deduce the repeat unit of a condensation polymer.
- Identifying monomers based on the small molecules expelled during polymerisation.