Essential Chemistry for IGCSE - Polymers (Section 3 - No. 47)
What is the primary difference between addition and condensation polymerization?
Addition polymerization involves only one type of monomer; condensation involves two.
Condensation polymerization involves the elimination of a small molecule; addition does not.
Addition polymerization forms a chain; condensation forms a network.
Condensation polymerization requires a catalyst; addition does not.
Explanation
The key difference is the elimination of a small molecule in condensation.