Question

Draw a stepwise mechanism for the polymerization of isoprene to gutta-percha using${\mathbf{\left(}{\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{3}}\mathbf{\right)}}_{\mathbf{3}}\mathbf{CO}\mathbf{-}\mathbf{OC}{\mathbf{\left(}{\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{3}}\mathbf{\right)}}_{\mathbf{3}}$as the initiator.

Short answer

Answer

Mechanism

Step-by-step solution

Free radical addition reaction

The reagent 2-ethylperoxy-2-methylpropane, releases free radical on exposure to light. This compound acts as an initiator for the stepwise polymerization of isoprene.

Gutta-percha

The plastic material used in the root canal treatment of teeth is gutta-percha. It is a natural polymer and similar to natural rubber. Both natural rubber and gutta-percha differ in the arrangements of monomers.

Mechanism

The stepwise mechanism of the reaction involves initiation, propagation, and termination, and it is as shown below:

Mechanism