Skip to content
    Chemistry A-Level

    Addition polymerisation

    What Addition polymerisation means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.

    Definitions of Addition polymerisation

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Addition polymerisation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: OCR

    An alkene with a C=C double bond opens that bond and joins with others, so the repeat unit has the same atoms as the monomer and no small molecule is lost.
    OCR · Polyesters and polyamides
    A process in which the C=C double bond of alkenes opens to form new single bonds linking monomer units into a long chain.
    OCR · Alkenes
    An alkene monomer with a C=C double bond opens that bond and adds to the growing chain with no small molecule lost.
    OCR · Polyesters and polyamides
    The joining of many alkene monomers through opening of the C=C double bond, with no small molecule eliminated.
    OCR · Alkenes
    A process in which the π bond of each monomer opens and the carbons join end to end into a long chain.
    AQA · Addition polymers (study guide)

    Topics that use Addition polymerisation

    Related terms

    Using Addition polymerisation in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Chemistry questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Chemistry A-Level terms