Radical polymerization is a chemical process used to create polymers by initiating a reaction with free radicals. These free radicals can be generated from various sources, such as heat, light, or chemical initiators. The process involves three main steps: initiation, propagation, and termination. During initiation, free radicals react with monomers, forming new radicals that continue to react with additional monomers, leading to the growth of the polymer chain. This method is widely used in the production of various materials, including plastics and rubbers. Common examples of polymers produced through radical polymerization include polyethylene and polystyrene. The versatility and efficiency of this technique make it essential in the field of materials science.