Polymers — Chemistry Mnemonic
Target: mnemonic for polymers types addition condensation chemistry
Why is this hard to memorize?
Polymers are large molecules made by repeating monomer units. NEET and JEE test: classification (addition vs condensation, homo vs co-polymer, natural vs synthetic), important examples (PVC, Teflon, Nylon, Bakelite, rubber), and their monomers. Addition polymers form by chain addition of alkenes (polyethylene, PVC, Teflon, polystyrene). Condensation polymers form by step-wise condensation with loss of small molecules like water (Nylon 6,6, PET, Bakelite). Knowing the monomer for each polymer is the most tested fact.
Classic mnemonics you should know
"Polyethylene(CH₂=CH₂), PVC(CH₂=CHCl), Teflon(CF₂=CF₂), PS(CH₂=CHC₆H₅)"
All start with substituted ethylene monomers. Polyethylene → ethylene. PVC → vinyl chloride. Teflon → tetrafluoroethylene. Polystyrene → styrene. Just add "poly-" to the monomer name.
"Nylon 6,6 = adipic acid + hexamethylenediamine(both 6C). PET = terephthalic acid + ethylene glycol. Bakelite = phenol + formaldehyde"
Condensation polymers come from two different monomers reacting with loss of H₂O. The numbers in Nylon 6,6 refer to carbon count: 6C diamine + 6C diacid. PET = Polyethylene Terephthalate (your plastic bottles).
"Proteins(amino acids), Starch/Cellulose(glucose), DNA/RNA(nucleotides), Rubber(isoprene)"
Natural polymers and their monomers: proteins → amino acids (peptide bonds). Starch/cellulose → glucose (glycosidic bonds). Nucleic acids → nucleotides (phosphodiester bonds). Natural rubber → isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene).
The complete list
- Addition: polyethylene, PVC, Teflon, polystyrene
- Condensation: Nylon 6,6, PET, Bakelite
- Nylon 6,6: adipic acid + hexamethylenediamine
- PET: terephthalic acid + ethylene glycol
- Bakelite: phenol + formaldehyde (thermosetting)
- Natural: proteins, starch, cellulose, rubber, DNA
- Thermoplastic: can be reshaped (PVC, PET)
- Thermosetting: cannot be reshaped (Bakelite)
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between addition and condensation polymers?
Addition polymers form by chain addition of unsaturated monomers (C=C) — no byproduct is released. Condensation polymers form by step-wise reaction between bifunctional monomers with release of small molecules (H₂O, HCl). Addition: all monomer atoms are in the polymer. Condensation: some atoms are lost as byproducts.
What is the monomer of Nylon 6,6?
Nylon 6,6 has TWO monomers: adipic acid (HOOC−(CH₂)₄−COOH, 6 carbons) and hexamethylenediamine (H₂N−(CH₂)₆−NH₂, 6 carbons). The "6,6" refers to 6 carbons in each monomer. Nylon 6 (different polymer) has one monomer: caprolactam (6 carbons).
What is the difference between thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers?
Thermoplastic polymers soften on heating and can be reshaped repeatedly (linear/branched chains, weak intermolecular forces): PVC, polythene, PET, nylon. Thermosetting polymers harden permanently on heating (cross-linked 3D network): Bakelite, melamine, epoxy resins. Thermosetting polymers cannot be recycled by melting.
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