ändgrupp

An end group, also known as a terminal group or chain end, refers to the atoms or functional groups located at the extremities of a polymer chain. In polymer science, polymers are long molecules composed of repeating structural units called monomers. These chains can have varying lengths and arrangements, and their properties are significantly influenced by the nature of the end groups.

The presence and type of end groups can affect several polymer characteristics. For instance, they can influence the polymer's solubility, melting point, and reactivity. In some cases, specific end groups are deliberately introduced during polymerization to control the molecular weight or to enable subsequent chemical modifications, such as cross-linking or grafting. The study of end groups is crucial for understanding polymerization mechanisms and for tailoring polymer properties for specific applications. For example, in condensation polymerization, end groups often involve reactive functionalities like hydroxyl or carboxyl groups that react to form the polymer chain, releasing a small molecule like water. In addition, end groups can play a role in the degradation pathways of polymers, as they may be more susceptible to chemical or thermal attack.