Explain why a random copolymer is obtained when 3,3-dimethyl-1-butene undergoes cationic polymerization.

Solution :

In the field of chemistry, the cationic polymerization is a kind of the chain growth polymerization where the cation initiator transfers the charge to the monomer and makes it more reactive. This kind of polymerization reaction is very sensitive to the temperature. With increase in temperature, the molecular weight as well as the reaction rate decreases rapidly.

Thus in the cationic polymerization of the 3,3-dimethyl-1-butene, the carbonation intermediate is formed and it rearranges itself. The attack o the 2nd alkene ca take place both the carbonations, so that random copolymer is formed.