Consider the relative stability of reactive intermediates. How many of the following monomers will p — Polymers Chemistry Question
Question
Consider the relative stability of reactive intermediates. How many of the following monomers will preferentially undergo rapid addition polymerization via a cationic mechanism rather than an anionic one? Isobutylene, Vinyl methyl ether, Propylene, Acrylonitrile, Tetrafluoroethene.
Answer: 3
💡 Solution & Explanation
Cationic polymerization requires electron-donating groups to stabilize the intermediate carbocation. Isobutylene (two $-CH_3$ groups), Vinyl methyl ether ($-OCH_3$ group), and Propylene (one $-CH_3$ group) undergo cationic polymerization. Acrylonitrile and Tetrafluoroethene possess electron-withdrawing groups and favor anionic or free-radical mechanisms. The count is 3.
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