Welcome to the colorful world of polymers! These large molecules are everywhere in our lives. From the clothes we wear to the toys we play with, polymers have a big role in our lives. In this set of notes, we will explore a fascinating process called "condensation polymerization" and understand how it is responsible for creating some of the most important materials we use today.

• Concept Overview:

  • Two different monomers, each having a functional group at both ends, can react together in a process known as condensation polymerization.
  • This reaction results in a polymer made of alternating monomers, forming a pattern like ABABABAB.

• Real-World Example - Polyester:

  • Polyester is made by the condensation reaction between a dicarboxylic acid monomer and a difunctional alcohol (diol) monomer.
  • They react to form an ester linkage and create a polymer molecule with two reactive ends.
  • These ends can further react with more monomers, forming a long polymer chain with alternating patterns.
  • This polymer product is called a polyester.

• Fun Fact - Your Clothes are Made of Polymers!

  • When you wear a shirt or a jacket made from polyester fabric, you're essentially wearing a chain of monomers linked together with ester linkages.