Electron exchange polymers. XXI. Polymerization behavior of 2,5‐dimethoxystyrene

It was shown that 2,5‐dimethoxystyrene polymerizes under free‐radical, cationic, and anionic initiation. The less bulky character of the ortho substituent in the benzene ring makes the behavior of this monomer more normal than that of the previously reported vinylhydroquinone dibenzoate. Thus, a linear relationship is observed between specific extinction coefficients of copolymers in the ultraviolet absorption spectra and copolymer compositions. Q‐e values are also normal ( Q = 1.76, e = −1.04). The copolymerization behavior is well understood through these values.