Question

During addition polymerisation of ethene molecules, the initiator like benzoyl peroxide, acetyl peroxide, tert-butyl peroxide, etc. are added. Their function is to

• A. ensure anti-Markownikoff's addition of molecules to form polymer
• B. give cations during the reaction which join together to form bigger molecules
• C. decrease the temperature of the reaction mixture
• D. generate free radical which adds to the monomer to give bigger free radical

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Free radical is generated by peroxide in the chain initiating step. The free radical join with monomers to propagate the chain.