Question

The polymer forms

upon condensation polymerization with loss of water. Draw the structure of the starting monomer.

Short answer

Thus, the structure of starting monomer, i.e., alanine is as shown:

Structure of alanine

Step-by-step solution

Enthalpy

In the case of addition polymerization, monomers react to form a polymer chain without a net loss of atoms. In the case of condensation polymerization, in which a small molecule (frequently water) is split off as each monomer unit is attached to the growing polymer.

Explanation

The given polymer is formed by the condensation polymerization with the loss of water.

Given polymer

As the polymer has an amide linkage the starting monomer must haveand COOH group on either side of secondary carbon atoms. The reaction is as shown:

Formation of polymer

Thus, the structure of starting monomer, i.e., alanine is as shown:

Structure of alanine