Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Teflon (PTFE)
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Polymerisation route dictates molecular weight build-up and typical structures. Chain-growth (addition) polymerisation proceeds via radicals, ions, or coordination sites adding unsaturated monomers. Recognising which commercial polymers arise from addition vs. condensation pathways is a frequent test of fundamentals.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
PTFE (Teflon) forms by chain-growth addition of tetrafluoroethylene. Nylon-66 and PET are condensation polymers (step-growth) formed from bifunctional monomers eliminating water or methanol; Bakelite is a step-growth phenol–formaldehyde network. Therefore, among the options, PTFE is the clear example of a chain-growth product.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Mechanistic overviews in polymer texts place vinyl polymers (PE, PP, PVC, PTFE, PS) in the chain-growth category.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Misclassifying ring-opening (e.g., caprolactam to nylon-6) as chain-growth; although it proceeds by chains, it is a step-growth condensation process at the functional group level.
Final Answer:
Teflon (PTFE)
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