What is condensation polymerisation?

Condensation polymerisation is accurately described as a method where monomers with two functional groups join together, resulting in the formation of a polymer while simultaneously losing small molecules, typically water. This process involves the chemical reaction between the functional groups of the monomers, such as alcohols and carboxylic acids, leading to the creation of covalent bonds that link the monomers together.

During the process, when two monomers react, a molecule of water or another simple molecule is expelled. This aspect of losing small molecules is what distinguishes condensation polymerisation from other types of polymerisation, such as addition polymerisation, where no molecules are lost during the reaction. The formation of these larger, more complex molecules is important in creating various types of polymers, including proteins, polyesters, and polyamides, which have a wide range of applications in materials science and biology. Understanding this process is crucial for appreciating how many synthetic and natural polymers are formed.