Question

A monomer undergoes addition polymerisation. A 1 mol sample of the monomer is completely
polymerised.
How many moles of polymer might, theoretically, be formed?
a) 1
b) 10–6
c) 1 divided by 6.02 into 10∧23
Answer is b and c, how?

Answer 1

Polymerization is where single molecules react with themselves and form a chain, a branch or a combination of both.  There are repeated unites within the resulted polymer.  This is the reactant (single molecule or monomer).  As a result, the number of polymer is always less than the number of the monomer.  Therefore, 1 mole of monomer, under complete polymerization, always forms less than 1 mole of polymer.  Answer is b and c.