Compute the repeat unit molecular weight of PTFE. Also compute the number-average molecular weight for a PTFE for which the degree of polymerization is 10,000

a) the repeat unit molecular weight of PTFE MW = 100.015 g/mole

b) the number-average molecular weight for a PTFE for which the degree of polymerization is 10,000 щₙ = 1000150 g/mole

Explanation:

Given that;

PTFE which is also called Polytetrafluoroethylene

structure  of repeat unit of Polytetrafluoroethylene

(C2F4)n

a)

To compute the repeat unit molecular weight

we say

MW = 2( atomic weight of C ) + 4( atomic weight of F)

MW = 2 (12.0107) + 4 ( 18.9984)

MW = 100.015 g/mole

therefore the repeat unit molecular weight of PTFE MW = 100.015 g/mole

b)

To compute the number-average molecular weight for  PTFE of which the degree of polymerization is 10,000

we say

DP = щₙ / MW

where щₙ is the number of average molecular weight,

MW is the repeat unit molecular weight give as 100.015 g/mole

DP is degree of polymerization which is 10,000

Now we substitute

10,000 = щₙ / 100.015

щₙ = 10,000 × 100.015

щₙ = 1000150 g/mole

Therefore the number-average molecular weight for a PTFE for which the degree of polymerization is 10,000 щₙ = 1000150 g/mole