Question

What is true regarding free radical polymerization of ethylene?

• A. Polymerization is invoked by either peroxide initiator or radiation
• B. Polymerization is exothermic in nature
• C. Molecular weight gain occur in propagation step of polymerization
• D. All of these

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Free radical reactions are usually initiated either by free radical initiator or radiation. Polymerization of all olefinic monomers are exothermic as unsaturated monomer is being converted into saturated polymer. Propagation step of polymerization leads to increase in chain length, hence gain in molar mass.