Question:medium

Polystyrene is a ___ polymer whereas dacron is a ___ polymer.

Show Hint

Addition = chain growth, Condensation = step growth (easy mapping trick).
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
  • step growth, chain growth
  • chain growth, step growth
  • condensation, addition
  • thermoplastic, thermosetting
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Polymers are classified by their mode of polymerization. Addition polymers usually proceed via a chain-growth mechanism, while condensation polymers usually proceed via a step-growth mechanism.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Polystyrene: It is formed by the addition polymerization of styrene monomers. Addition polymerization involves the formation of reactive intermediates (like free radicals) that rapidly add monomers to a growing chain. This is called a chain-growth polymerization.
2. Dacron (Terylene): It is a polyester formed by the condensation reaction between ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid with the elimination of water molecules. Condensation polymerization involves the reaction between functional groups, and any two species can react to form a dimer, then a trimer, etc. This is called step-growth polymerization.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Polystyrene is chain growth, and Dacron is step growth. Option B is correct.
Was this answer helpful?
0