To determine the correct answer to the question about the empirical formula of an addition polymer, let's first understand the process of addition polymerization.
1. Addition Polymerization Process:
- Addition polymerization involves the joining of monomer units without the loss of any small molecules. Typically, this means that the polymer consists of repeating units that are chemically identical to the monomer.
- During this process, the double or triple bonds of the monomer units break and form new single bonds between the monomer units, creating a long chain or network.
2. Analyzing Each Option:
- Option a: Suggests that the empirical formula of the polymer is the same as that of the monomer.
- Option b: Suggests that 2 hydrogen (H) atoms and 1 oxygen (O) atom are added to the empirical formula of the polymer as compared to the monomer.
- Option c: Suggests that 2 hydrogen (H) atoms and 1 carbon (C) atom are added to the empirical formula of the polymer as compared to the monomer.
- Option d: Suggests that 2 hydrogen (H) atoms and 1 oxygen (O) atom are subtracted from the empirical formula of the polymer as compared to the monomer.
- Option e: Suggests that 2 hydrogen (H) atoms and 1 carbon (C) atom are subtracted from the empirical formula of the polymer as compared to the monomer.
Given that addition polymerization does not involve the addition or removal of atoms, but rather the reorganization of existing bonds in the monomer to form the polymer, the empirical formula of the polymer remains the same as that of the monomer unit.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
a. is the same as that of the monomer from which it is formed
This option accurately reflects the nature of the addition polymerization process, whereby the empirical formula of the polymer is identical to that of the monomer.
