Solution (source code)

= Solution

For the ideal equimolar <step-growth polymerization>, $p=0.5$ gives
$$
\boxed{\overline X_n=2.}
$$
This counts individual starting <molecules>, so it is only roughly one diamine–diester pair per average chain, rather than a long <polymer>. In a successful <radical polymerization>, many <monomers> normally add between initiation and <radical termination>. \b[The styrene–maleic anhydride copolymer in (iv) therefore has the larger expected <degree of polymerization>.]

Conversion alone does not specify the radical-chain length: the conclusion assumes ordinary polymer-forming conditions, rather than arbitrarily high initiator concentration or extremely strong <chain transfer in chain polymerization>.