Addition Polymerisation of Ethene

Part of Polymers · Section 3 of 12

DiagramUnit: Bonding & StructureGCSE

This diagram covers Addition Polymerisation of Ethene within Polymers for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Polymers in Bonding & Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 22 exam-style questions and 21 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 3 of 12 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.

📐 Addition Polymerisation of Ethene

Addition and condensation polymerisation: ethene monomers joining into poly(ethene) chain, and alternating monomers releasing water

Ethene monomers (CH₂=CH₂) undergo addition polymerisation. The double bonds open and monomers link together to form the long poly(ethene) chain. No atoms are lost in the process.

Practice questions for Polymers

In addition polymerisation, what feature of monomer molecules allows them to join together?

  • A. A carbon-carbon double bond that opens to form new bonds
  • B. A hydroxyl (-OH) group that reacts with an amine group
  • C. A carboxyl (-COOH) group that loses a water molecule
  • D. A free electron that forms a new covalent bond
1 markfoundation

Explain why thermosetting polymers are rigid and do not melt when heated.

2 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

What is a polymer?
A large molecule made of many small repeating units (monomers) joined by covalent bonds
What is a monomer?
A small molecule that joins with others to form a polymer

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How Polymers Are Made: Addition Polymerisation

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How It Works: Why Monomers Join Together

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