Addition polymerisation
2 marks · EasyExplain why addition polymerisation produces only the polymer and no other products.
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The monomers add together without eliminating any atoms or molecules. Only the double bonds are broken and used to join the monomers. No small molecules are produced.
Also accept: All atoms from monomers become part of the polymer.; No other substances are formed because only addition occurs at the double bond.
Common mistakes: Saying water or other small molecules are produced.
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · States that the monomers add together without elimination or loss of atoms.
M2 · 1 mark · Explains that only the polymer is produced — no small molecule by-products are formed.
Worked solution
In addition polymerisation, the monomers simply add to each other by opening up their double bonds. No atoms are removed or lost, so only the polymer is formed with no other products.