Explain the free radical polymerisation of styrene.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution: Free Radical Polymerization of Styrene**

1. **Initiation**: The process begins with the generation of free radicals. A radical initiator (denoted as RO•) decomposes to produce free radicals. For example, if we consider a peroxide initiator, it breaks down to form two RO• radicals.

2. **Reaction with Styrene**: The generated radical (RO•) reacts with styrene (C6H5-CH=CH2). The double bond in styrene is attacked by the radical, leading to the formation of a new radical. This can happen in two ways:
- The radical can add to the terminal carbon (CH2) of the double bond, resulting in a benzylic radical (C6H5-CH•-CH2).
- Alternatively, the radical can add to the carbon that is already bonded to the phenyl group, but this results in a less stable radical.

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