Question

Write any two differences between step growth and chain growth polymerisation.

Answer 1

In the addition polymerization the chain grows adding repeating units, while in the step process any monomer can react with any other.

In step polymerization the molecules grow slowly, in the addition process, there are long molecules early in the reaction. In addition monomer decreases steadily, in chain, monomer decreases early.

Answer 2

Step-growth (e.g. condensation) versus Chain-Growth (e.g. free radical) Polymerization. All molecules present (monomer, oligomer, polymer) can react with any other molecule. ... Monomers exist throughout the reaction; its concentration decreases steadily with time.