Question

Which method of ionic polymerization-cationic or anionic-is preferred for each monomer? Explain your choices.

(a.)

(b.)

(c.)

(d.)

Short answer

Answer

a. The method of ionic polymerization preferred for compound a is anionic polymerization.

b. The method of ionic polymerization preferred for compound b is cationic polymerization.

c. The method of ionic polymerization preferred for compound c is cationic polymerization.

d. The method of ionic polymerization preferred for compound d is anionic polymerization.

Step-by-step solution

Ionic polymerization

Cationic and anionic polymerization constitutes the different kinds of ionic polymerization. Cation polymerization happens in compounds possessing electron-donating groups.

Anionic polymerization happens in compounds comprising electron-withdrawing groups.

Monomer

Monomers constitute simple units that combine to create polymers. Molecules comprising of two or more binding sites serve as monomers. A few examples of monomers include alkenes and vinyl chloride.

Method of ionic polymerization preferred for each monomer

Cationic polymerization happens with alkene monomers comprising substituents that stabilize carbocations, like the alkyl and electron-donating groups. Anionic polymerization happens with monomers comprising substituents that can stabilize a negative charge.

a. The given monomer comprises an electron-withdrawing group,${\mathrm{COOCH}}_3$. Hence., it can stabilize the negative charge, and the monomer creates polymer by anionic polymerization.

b. The given monomer comprises an electron-donating group -the alkyl group. Hence, it stabilizes the positive charge, and the monomer generates polymer by cationic polymerization.

c. The given monomer comprises an electron-donating group, $\mathrm{OC}{\left({\mathrm{CH}}_3\right)}_3$. Hence, it stabilizes the positive charge, and the monomer creates polymer by cationic polymerization.

d. The given monomer comprises an electron withdrawing group, ${\mathrm{COCH}}_3$. Hence, it stabilizes the negative charge, and the monomer generates polymer by anionic polymerization.