What is the outcome when ethene undergoes polymerization?

The polymerization of ethene involves the joining of multiple ethene (C₂H₄) molecules through a process known as addition polymerization. During this reaction, the double bond in the ethene molecule opens up and allows for the formation of single bonds with neighboring ethene molecules. This process results in the creation of a long-chain polymer made up of many ethene units linked together, which is commonly known as polyethylene.

The significance of the formation of only single bonds in the resulting polymer is crucial, as it determines the properties of the material. Polyethylene is characterized by its strength and flexibility due to these single covalent bonds among the carbon atoms in the polymer chain.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the outcome of the polymerization of ethene. For instance, the formation of C₄H₈ implies the production of a smaller alkene molecule, which is not the case in polymerization as the process leads to larger, more complex structures instead. Additionally, the production of byproducts such as alkenes or short-chain hydrocarbons does not typically occur during the polymerization of ethene, as the reaction focuses on converting the monomers into a singular polymeric product instead. Thus, the correct option