Question

Explain addition polymerization with an example.

Answer 1

Addition polymerization is also called chain growth polymerization. Alkenes are treated with small amounts of initiators. The chain grows by adding the reactive end of growing chain to double bond of monomer. Reactive intermediates such as free radicals, carbocations or carbanions are formed.
An example of addition polymerisation is the polymerisation of tetrafluoroethylene (monomer) to form teflon (polymer).
$nC{F}_2=C{F}_2\stackrel{polymerisation}{\to }[-C{F}_2-C{F}_2-{]}_n$