POLYMERS

CHAPTER – 15

POLYMERS

Introduction - Polymers can be found all around us. From the Poly means – more than one
strand of our DNA, which is a naturally occurring biopolymer, Mer - part
Polymers: The word ‘polymer’ is derived from two Greek
to polypropylene which is used throughout the world as
words: poly means many and mer means unit or part. The
plastic. term polymer is defined as the large molecules whose
molecular size varies from 103 -107 u). These are also called
Polymers may be naturally found in plants and animals
macromolecules, which are formed by assembling repeating
(natural polymers) or may be man-made (synthetic building blocks or units in large quantities.
polymers). Different polymers have a number of unique
Monomers: Repetitive structural units derived from other
physical and chemical properties, due to which they find simple and functional molecules known as monomers.
usage in everyday life.
The process of forming polymers from different monomers is star-shaped polymer structures, H-shaped, pom-pom, and
called polymerization. Example - Conversion of ethylene to comb-shaped polymers. A common example of branched
polyethylene. polymers is low-density polyethylene (LDPE). It has a wide
range of applications ranging from plastic bags, fabrics,
Classification of polymers on the basis of source:
containers, to holes in various packaging materials. -There is
Natural Polymers – It is obtained from plants
a reduction in packing efficiency in branch chains as a result
Proteins, cellulose, starch, other resins and rubber are
of which they show low density.
examples of polymers found in plants.
Semi-synthetic polymers – the polymers which are formed
by the chemical modification of natural polymers
Extracts from cellulose such as cellulose acetate (rayon) and
cellulose nitrate etc. are examples of this category.
Synthetic polymers – the polymers which are synthesised in
laboratory.
Plastic (polythene), nylon (6, 6) and synthetic rubber (Buna-
S) are examples of man-made polymers.
Classification based on the structure of polymers:
Linear polymer – A type of polymer in which linear
polymeric chain are present which are well-packed to each
other due to which it has maximum density, melting point and
tensile strength. Cross-linked or network polymers – it is such type of
A linear polymer is a long continuous chain of carbon-carbon polymer which is generally formed by the bifunctional or
bonds and two remaining valence bonds attached primarily trifunctional monomer. In this polymer linear polymeric
to hydrogen or other small part of hydrocarbon. chain are held together by the strong covalent bond. Example
– melamine, Bakelite.
Example

PVC, HDP etc.

Note
All fibers are linear polymers. Examples – are
cellulose, silk, nylon, terylene etc.
Classification based on polymerization mode:
Linear polymers may be condensation as well as
Addition Polymer –It is formed by the repeated addition of
addition polymers. Examples are cellulose,
same or different monomer. These polymers are usually
polypeptide, nucleic acid, nylon, terylene etc.
made up of molecules with a carbon-carbon double bond
which means that additional polymers are prepared from
Branched chain polymers – The polymers made up of main alkenes. Additional polymers include polystyrene,
chain(linear chain) with smaller chains as branches of main polyethylene, polyacrylates, and methacrylates.
chain are called branched chain polymers. They have lower It is further divided into two parts:
melting points, densities and tensile strength as compared to Homopolymer – it is formed by the repeated addition of
linear polymers. same monomer..
Example Example
Polypropylene, LDP polythene.

OR Polythene - Polythenes are linear or long chain molecules

Branched polymers are defined as secondary polymer chains with few branches. These are able to repeatedly soften in heat
attached to the primary backbone, resulting in a variety of
and to harden in cooling and thus are thermoplastic (i) They are formed due to condensation reactions.
polymers. (ii) Condensation polymerisation is also known as step
growth polymerisation.
(iii) For condensation polymerisation, monomers should
have at least two functional groups. Both functional
groups may be same or different.
(iv) Monomers having only two functional group always
give linear polymer.
Types of polythene (v) Condensation polymers do not contain all atoms
Low density polythene initially present in the monomers.
High density polythene Some atoms are lost in the form of small molecules.
(vi) Monomer having three functional groups always gives
Teflon - Teflon is produced by burning tetrafluoroethene by cross-linked polymer.
free radical or persulphate catalyst at high pressure. It is
chemically inactive and resists attack by corrosive reagents. Example
Urea-formaldehyde resin, phenol-formaldehyde
resin.

Typically, PVC is a condensing polymer with a pressure of 100

Heteropolymer or copolymer – It is formed by the repeated
atmospheres at 2000C. Polyethylene consists of condensation
addition of different monomers.
polymers formed by a combination of monomer and
dissolution of simple molecules such as H2O or CH3OH.
Example
Classification based on the molecular forces:
Buna-S. Elastomers - Elastomers are polymers that have viscosity
and elasticity and therefore are known as viscoelasticity. The
molecules of elastomers are held together by weak
intermolecular forces and generally exhibit low Young’s
modulus and high yield strength or high failure strain. They
inherit the unique property of regaining their original shape
and size after being significantly stretched. IUPAC defines the
term "elastomer" as "Polymer that reflects rubber-like
elasticity."
Example

Natural rubber: These are used in the automotive

Buna-N industry and in the manufacture of medical tubes,
balloons, adhesives.
Polyurethanes: These are used in the textile
industry for manufacturing elastic clothing like
lycra.
Polybutadiene: These are used for providing wear
resistance in wheels of vehicles.
Condensation polymer –it is formed by the condensation
polymerisation reaction of bi-functional or tri-functional
Fibres - It is such type of polymer in which polymeric chain
monomer. In this polymer, small molecule like alcohol, water,
are held together by the strong H-bond. It has crystalline
hydrochloric acid, etc., is removed. In this type, monomers
nature.
usually have two or three different functional groups.
Example: Polyamides (nylon 6, 6), polyester (terylene), etc.
Example – Nylon – 6,6.
Thermoplastics – It is a such type of polymers which
possesses intermediate force of elastomers and fibres.
Examples include poly vinyl chloride, polythene, polystyrene.
It became soft on heating and hard on cooling.
Thermosetting plastics – It is such type of polymer in which
heavily branched molecule are present. Thermosetting
polymer is a permanent setting polymer as it hardens and set Some important points about LDP
during the molding process and cannot soften again. They are • It is flexible in nature
held together by covalent bond. • It is poor conductor of electricity
Examples of Thermosetting polymers are Bakelite, Urea- • It is chemically inert
formaldehyde resins etc. • It is used in making flexible pipe, toys and insulation
Two broad types of polymerization reactions of electric wire.
•
1. Addition or Chain growth polymerization – It takes HDP (High density polythene) – by the polymeristaion of
place in unsaturated monomer. ethane in hydrocarbon solvent in the presence of Ziegler-
Like CH2=CH2 Natta catalyst at 333 – 343k temperature and 6-7 atm
CF2=CF2 pressure, HDP is formed.
CH2=CH-CN The micture of triethyl aluminium and titanium tetrachloride
CH2=CH-C6H5 is known as Ziegler-Natta catalyst.
It takes place by the free radical mechanism.
Free radical mechanism takes place in the presence of per Some important points about HDP
oxide. • It is hard and tough
It takes three steps to complete. • It is chemically inert
It can be understood with the help of following examples. • It is poor conductor of electricity
• It is used in making pipe, bucket, bottle etc.
Example Teflon – by the polymerisation of tetrafluoroethene at high
pressure in the presence of free radical catalyst, Teflon if
Ethene → Polythene formed.

Mechanism:
Step-I formation of free radical
Step-II free radical attacks on substrate molecule.
Step-III free radical combines with free radical to form • It is chemically inert
neutral molecules. • It is corrosive resistant
• It is used in making non-stick utensils
Polyacrylonitrile –
• The addition polymerisation of acrylonitrile in presence of
a peroxide catalyst leads to the formation of
polyacrylonitrile.
• Polyacrylonitrile is used as a substitute for wool in making
commercial fibres as Orlon or acrilan.

• It is substituted of wool
• It is used in making synthetic fibre in the name of orlon.
2. Condensation or Step growth polymerization –
• This type of polymerisation involves a repetitive
condensation reaction between two bi-functional
monomers.
• These poly condensation reactions results in the loss
of some simple molecules as water, alcohol, etc., and
lead to the formation of high molecular mass
Classification of polythene: condensation polymers.
LDP (Low Density polythene) – It is formed by the • In these reactions, the product of each step is again a
polymerisation of ethane at high pressure and high bi-functional species and the sequence of
temperature (1000-2000 atm, 350-370k) in the presence of condensation goes on.
peroxide.
 • Since, each step produces a distinct functionalised
species and is independent of each other; this
process is also called as step growth polymerisation.
• The formation of Terylene or Dacron by the
interaction of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid is
an example of this type of polymerisation.

• It is synthetic fibre
• It is used in textile industries
• It is used in blending of cotton or wool.
Phenol – formaldehyde polymer (Bakelite and related
polymers):-
Phenol - formaldehyde polymers are the oldest synthetic
polymers.
Another important Condensation polymerization These are obtained by the condensation reaction of phenol
Nylon 6,6 - Prepared by condensation polymerization of with formaldehyde in the presence of either an acid or a base
hexamethylenediamine and adipic acid under high pressure catalyst.
and high temperature. The reaction starts with the initial formation of o-and/or p-
It is used to make sheets, bristles and brushes in the textile hydroxymethylphenol derivatives, which further react with
industry. phenol to form compounds having rings joined to each other
through –CH2
The initial product could be a linear product – Novolac used
in paints.
Novolac on heating with formaldehyde undergoes cross
linking to form infusible solid mass called Bakelite. It is used
for making combs, phonograph records, electrical switches
and handles of various utensils.

Nylon 6 - It is obtained by heating the caprolactum with

water at high temperatures.
It is used for the construction of tires, fabrics and ropes.

Navolac are cross-linked to each other to form infeasible solid

mass. It is known as Bakelite.

Polyamides:-
These polymers possessing amide linkages are important
examples of synthetic fibres and are termed as nylons. The
general method of preparation consists of the condensation
polymerisation of diamines with dicarboxylic acids and also
of amino acids and their lactams.
Polyesters: - These are the poly condensation products of
dicarboxylic acids and diols. It is used in making dustbin, comb, bucket, electrical switch
Dacron or Terylene is the best known example of polyesters. etc.
It is manufactured by heating a mixture of ethylene glycol and
Melamine- formaldehyde Polymer:-
terephthalic acid at 420 to 460 K in the presence of Zinc
Melamine formaldehyde polymer is formed by the
acetate antimony trioxide catalyst.
condensation polymerisation of melamine and
Dacron fibre (Terylene) is crease resistant and is used in formaldehyde.
blending with cotton and wool fibres and also as glass It is used in the manufacture of unbreakable crockery.
reinforcing materials in safety helmets, etc.
 • It has maximum water absorption capacity.
• It is soluble in non-polar solvent.
Vulcanization of rubber –
• Natural rubber becomes soft at high temperature (>335
K) and brittle at low temperatures (<283 K) and shows
Melamine polymer is used for the preparation of unbreakable high water absorption capacity.
crockery.
• It is soluble in non-polar solvents and is non-resistant to
Copolymerization - Co Polymerization attack by oxidising agents. To improve upon these
physical properties, a process of vulcanisation is carried
• Copolymerisation is a polymerisation reaction in which a out. This process consists of heating a mixture of raw
mixture of more than one monomeric species is allowed to rubber with sulphur and an appropriate additive at a
polymerise and form a copolymer. temperature range 373 K to 415K.
• The copolymer can be made not only by chain growth • On vulcanisation, sulphur forms cross links at the reactive
polymerisation but by step growth polymerisation also. sites of double bonds and thus the rubber gets stiffened.
• It contains multiple units of each monomer used in the • In the manufacture of tyre rubber, 5% of sulphur is used
same polymeric chain. as a crosslinking agent.
• For example:-a mixture of 1, 3 – butadiene and styrene can
form a copolymer.
• Copolymers have properties quite different from
homopolymers.
• For example: - butadiene - styrene copolymer is quite
tough and is a good substitute for natural rubber.
• It is used for the manufacture of auto tyres, floor tiles,
footwear components, cable insulation, etc.

2 Synthetic rubber –
Synthetic rubber is any vulcanisable rubber like polymer,
which is capable of getting stretched to twice its length.
However, it returns to its original shape and size as soon as
the external stretching force is released.
Thus, synthetic rubbers are either homopolymers of 1, 3 -
Rubber
butadiene derivatives or copolymers of 1, 3 - butadiene or its
Rubber is a natural substance obtained by collecting the latex
derivatives with another unsaturated monomer.
of a certain tree. Rubber trees are found in abundance in
Brazil. Later, these trees were planted in other countries too. Buna-S
Latex is colloidal dispersion of rubber in water. This latex is (1, 3-Butadiene styrene co-polymer)
obtained from the bark of rubber tree and is found in India,
Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia and South America.
Natural Rubber - Natural rubber may be considered as a
linear polymer of isoprene (2-methyl-1, 3-butadiene) and is
also called as cis - 1, 4 -polyisoprene.
The cis-polyisoprene molecule consists of various chains held
together by weak van der Waals interactions and has a coiled
structure.
Thus, it can be stretched like a spring and exhibits elastic
properties. Buna N
(1, 3-Butadiene acrylonitrile copolymer)

Properties of rubber:
• It has elastic nature
• It is soft above 335 K temperature and hard below 283 K
temperature.
 Nylon-2 Nylon-6
It is formed by the polymerisation of glycine and amino
• It is resistant to the action of petrol fabricating oil
caproic acid
and organic solvent.
• It is used in making oil seals, tank lining etc.
Neoprene:-
• Neoprene or poly chloroprene is formed by the free
radical polymerisation of chloroprene.
• It has superior resistance to vegetable and mineral oils.
• It is used for manufacturing conveyor belts, gaskets and
hoses.
It is used for stiching during surgery.
Some Other Commercially Important Polymers

Biodegradable polymers -
A large number of polymers are quite resistant to the
environmental degradation processes and are thus
responsible for the accumulation of polymeric solid waste
materials.
Aliphatic polyesters are one of the important classes of
biodegradable polymers.
Some important examples are given below:
Poly β-hydroxybutyrate – co-β-hydroxy valerate (PHBV)
It is obtained by the copolymerisation of 3-hydroxybutanoic
acid and 3 - Hydroxypentanoic acid.
PHBV is used in speciality packaging, orthopaedic devices and
in controlled release of drugs. PHBV undergoes bacterial
degradation in the environment.
Polymers are defined as high molecular mass with phenol and melamine to form the corresponding
macromolecules, which consist of repeating structural units condensation polymer products. The condensation
derived from the corresponding monomers. These polymers polymerisation progresses through step by step and is also
may be of natural or synthetic origin and are classified in a called as step growth polymerisation. Nylon, bakelite and
number of ways. dacron are some of the important examples of condensation
polymers. However, a mixture of two unsaturated monomers
In the presence of an organic peroxide initiator, the alkenes
exhibits copolymerisation and forms a co-polymer containing
and their derivatives undergo addition polymerisation or
multiple units of each monomer. Natural rubber is a cis 1, 4-
chain growth polymerisation through a free radical
polyisoprene and can be made more tough by the processof
mechanism. Polythene, teflon, orlon, etc. are formed by
vulcanisation with sulphur. Synthetic rubbers are usually
addition polymerisation of an appropriate alkene or its
obtained by copolymerisation of alkene and 1, 3 butadiene
derivative. Condensation polymerisation reactions are
derivatives.
shown by the interaction of bi – or poly functional monomers
containing – NH2 , – OH and – COOH groups. This type of In view of the potential environmental hazards of synthetic
polymerisation proceeds through the elimination of certain polymeric wastes, certain biodegradable polymers such as
simple molecules as H2O, CH3OH, etc. Formaldehyde reacts PHBV and Nylon-2- Nylon-6 are developed as alternatives
 QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE
Q1 Which of the following is a polymer containing (c) The repeat unit in natural rubber is isoprene.
nitrogen? (d) Both starch and cellulose are polymers of glucose.
(a) Polyvinyl chloride (b) Bakelite
Q13 The monomer(s) used in the preparation of orlon, a
(c) Nylon (d) Terylene
substitute for wool is/are
Q2 Teflon, styron and neoprene are all (a) caprolactam
(a) Copolymers (b) tetrafluoroethene
(b) Condensation polymers (c) styrene and 1, 3-butadiene
(c) Homopolymers (d) acrylonitrile
(d) Monomers
Q14 Polymer obtained by condensation polymerization is
Q3 The repeating unit present in Nylon 6 is (a) Polythene (b) Teflon
(a) — [NH(CH2)6NHCO(CH2)4CO] — (c) Bakelite (d) Nitrile rubber
(b) — [CO(CH2)5NH] — Q15 Polyvinyl alcohol can be prepared by
(c) — [CO (CH2)6NH] — (a) polymerization of vinyl alcohol
(d) — [CO (CH2)4NH] — (b) alkaline hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate
Q4 Which one of the following is not a condensation (c) polymerization of acetylene
polymer? (d) reaction of acetylene with H2SO4 in presence of
(a) Melamine (b) Glyptal HgSO4
(c) Dacron (d) Neoprene Q16 Which of the following is not a biopolymer?
Q5 On the basis of mode of formation, polymers can be (a) Proteins (b) Rubber
classified? (c) Cellulose (d) RNA
(a) as addition polymers only Q17 Bakelite is
(b) as condensation polymers only (a) addition polymer (b) elastomer
(c) as copolymers (c) thermoplastic (d) thermosetting.
(d) both as addition and condensation polymers
Q18 Buna-S is
Q6 Which of the following polymers do not involve cross (a) Homo polymer (b) Condensation polymer
linkages? (c) Copolymer (d) none of these.
(a) Melmac (b) Bakelite
(c) Polythene (d) Vulcanised rubber Q19 The S in Buna-S refers to
(a) sodium (b) sulphur
Q7 Which one of the following is not an example of chain (c) styrene (d) just a trade name.
growth polymer?
(a) Neoprene (b) Buna-S Q20 The repeating units of PTFE is
(c) PMMA (d) Glyptal (a) Cl2CH—CH3 (b) F2C = CF2
(c) F3C—CF3 (d) FCIC = CF2.
Q8 —[NH(CH2)6NHCO(CH2)4CO—]n is a
(a) addition polymer (b) thermosetting polymer Q21 The inter-particle forces between linear chains in
(c) homopolymer (d) copolymer Nylon-66 are
(a) H-bonds (b) covalent bonds
Q9 PVC is a (c) ionic bonds (d) unpredictable.
(a) thermoplastic polymer (b) compound polymer
(c) thermosetting polymer (d) simple polymer Q22 Nylon-66 is a polyamide of
(a) vinyl chloride and formaldehyde
Q10 The synthetic polymer which resembles natural rubber (b) adipic acid and methyl amine
is (c) adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine
(a) neoprene (b) chloroprene (d) formaldehyde and malamine.
(c) glyptal (d) nylon
Q23 Which of the following is a condensation polymer?
Q11 The process of heat-softening, moulding and cooling to (a) Polystyrene
rigidness can be repeated for which plastics (b) Neoprene
(a) thermoplastics (b) thermosetting plastics (c) PAN
(c) both (a) and (b) (d) neither (a) nor (b) (d) Polyethylene terephthalate)
Q12 Which of the following statements is false? Q24 Which of the following polymer is a copolymer?
(a) Artificial silk is derived from cellulose. (a) Pqlyprene (b) Nylon-66
(b) Nylon-66 is an example of elastomer. (c) PVC (d) Teflon
Q25 Caprolactum is the starting material for Q36 Identify the type of polymer
(a) Nylon-6 (b) Terylene (i) -A-A-A-A-A-A-
(c) Nylon-6, 10 (d) Nylon (ii) -A-B-B-A-A-A-B-A-
(a) (i) Homopolymer, (ii) Copolymer
Q26 Synthetic polymer prepared by using ethylene glycol
(b) (i) Natural polymer, (ii) Synthetic polymer
and terephthalic acid is known as:
(a) Teflon (b) Terylene (c) (i) Linear polymer, (ii) Branched polymer
(c) Nylon (d) PVC (d) (i) Fibre, (ii) Elastomer

Q27 Bakelite is obtained from phenol by reacting with Q37 Which of the following are thermoplastic polymers?
(a) Ethanal (b) Methanal (a) Polythene, urea-formaldehyde, polyvinyls
(c) Vinyl chloride (d) Ethyleneglycol. (b) Bakelite, polythene, polystyrene
(c) Polythene, polystyrene, polyvinyls
Q28 Which of the following is a natural fibre? (d) Urea-formaldehyde, polystyrene, Bakelite
(a) Starch (b) Cellulose
(c) Rubber (d) Nylon-6. Q38 Glycogen, a naturally occuring polymer stored in
animals is a
Q29 Which of the following is used in paints. (a) monosaccharide (b) disaccharide
(a) Nylon (b) Terylene (c) trisaccharide (d) polysaccharide
(c) Glyptal (d) Chlroprene.
Q39 Terylerte is a condensation polymer of ethylene glycol
Q30 Which is not a polymer? and
(a) Sucrose (b) Enzyme (a) benzoic acid (b) phthalic acid
(c) Starch (d) Teflon.
(c) terephthalic acid (d) salicylic acid
Q31 Which of the following is a fully flourinated polymer?
Q40 Heating rubber with sulphur is known as
(a) Teflon (b) Neoprene
(a) galvanisation (b) bessemerisation
(c) Thiokol (d) PVC
(c) vulcanisation (d) sulphonation
Q32 Orion has a unit of
Q41 Which of the following is a naturally occurning
(a) Vinyl Cyanide (b) acrolein
polymer?
(c) glycol (d) isoprene
(a) Nylon and starch (b) Starch and cellulose
Q33 Which of the following is a biodegradable polymer? (c) Teflon and nylon (d) Neoprene and PVC
(a) Cellulose (b) Polyethene
(c) Polyvinyl chloride (d) Nylon-6. Q42 Which of the following is an example of addition
polymer?
Q34 Arrange the following polymers is an increasing order (a) Teflon (b) Nylon-6
of intenqolecular forces: fibre, plastic, elastomer (c) Bakelite (d) Nylon-66
(a) Elastomer < Fibre < Plastic
(b) Elastomer < Plastic < Fibre Q43 Which of the following has amide linkage?
(c) Plastic < Elastomer < Fibre (a) Nylon-66 (b) Bakelite
(d) Fibre < Elastomer < Plastic (c) Teflon (d) Terylene

Q35 The correct structure of monomers of buna-S is Q44 Which of the following is thermoplastic ?
(a) terylene (b) nylon
(c) polyethylene (d) all of these
Q45 The process of vuleanisation is at ion of rubber makes
it
(a) souble in water (b) hard
(c) soft (d) less elastic
Q46 Which of the following statements is not true about low
density polythene?
(a) Tough
(b) Hard
(c) Poor conductor of electricity
(d) Highly branched structure
Q47 Isoprene polymerises to
(a) starch (b) synthetuc rubber
(c) natural rubber (d) PVC
Q48 The constituents of Nylon-66 are (e) Assertion is wrong statement and reason is correct
(a) Benzoic acid and ethylamine statement.
(b) Phthalic acid and hexamethylene diamine Q3. Assertion: Network polymers are thermosetting.
(c) Phenol and adipic acid Reason: Network polymers have high molecular mass.
(d) Adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine (a) Assertion and reason both are correct statement
but reason does not explain assertion.
49 Which of the following is not a semisynthetic polymer?
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements
(a) cis-polyisoprene (b) Cellulose nitrate
and reason explains the assertion.
((c) Cellulose acetate (d) Vulcanised rubber
(c) Both assertion and reason are wrong statement.
50 For the formation of fibre, (d) Assertion is correct statement and reason is wrong
(a) monomers must contain tetrahedral geometry statement.
(b) monomers have high tensile strength (e) Assertion is wrong statement and reason is correct
(C) monomers must have complex structure statement.
(d) monomers must contain linear geometry
Q4. Assertion: Polytetrafluoroethene is used in making
non-stick cookwares.
ASSERTION AND REASONING
Reason: Fluorine has highest electronegativity.
(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statement
Q1. Assertion: Most of the Synthetic polymers are not but reason does not explain assertion.
biodegradable. (b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements
Reason: Polymerisation process induces toxic and reason explains the assertion.
character in organic molecules (c) Both assertion and reason are wrong statement.
(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statement (d) Assertion is correct statement and reason is wrong
but reason does not explain assertion. statement.
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements (e) Assertion is wrong statement and reason is correct
and reason explains the assertion. statement.
(c) Both assertion and reason are wrong statement.
(d) Assertion is correct statement and reason is wrong TRUE/FALSE
statement.
(e) Assertion is wrong statement and reason is correct
Q1. Synthetic fibre is polymer, while plastic is not a
statement.
polymer.
Q2. Assertion: Olefinic monomers undergo addition (a) True (b) False
polymerisation.
Q2. Polymers are small molecules made by stringing
Reason: Polymerisation of vinylchloride is initiated by
together several monomers.
peroxides/ persulphates.
(a) True (b) False
(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statement
but reason does not explain assertion. Q3. Blended fabrics contain only synthetic fibres.
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements (a) True (b) False
and reason explains the assertion.
Q4. Dusters made of nylon or other synthetic materials are
(c) Both assertion and reason are wrong statement.
good for use in the kitchen.
(d) Assertion is correct statement and reason is wrong
(a) True (b) False
statement.

HOMEWORK
Q1. Which of the following polymer can be formed by using Q2. Which of the following polymers, need atleast one
the following monomer unit? diene monomer for their preparation?
(a) Dacron (b) Buna-S
(c) Neoprene (d) Novolac
Q3. Which of the following are characteristics of
thermosetting polymers?
(a) Heavily branched cross linked polymers.
(b) Linear slightly branched long chain molecules.
(c) Become infusible on moulding so cannot be reused.
(a) Nylon 6, 6 (b) Nylon 2–nylon 6 (d) Soften on heating and harden on cooling, can be
(c) Melamine polymer (d) Nylon-6 reused.
Q4. Which of the following phenols are able to form Q15. Which of the following is not a trade name of PMMA
Novolac? polymer?
(a) 2,4,6-(Trihydroxymethyl)phenol (a) Perspex (b) Acrylite
(b) m-Hydroxybenzyl alcohol (c) Lucite (d) Vectran
(c) o-Hydroxybenzyl alcohol and p-hydroxybenzyl
Q16. Which of the following is used in the manufacture of
alcohol
building materials?
(d) 2,4-(Dihydroxymethyl)phenol
(a) Bakelite
Q5. The polymer of type [-AAAABBBAAAABBB-]n, where A (b) Urea-formaldehyde resin
and B are two different monomers, is called a ______ (c) Kevlar (d) Glyptal
copolymer.
Q17. Which of the following is used in the making of
(a) Random (b) Alternating
unbreakable cups?
(c) Block (d) Graft
(a) Bakelite (b) Urea formaldehyde
Q6. Which of the following is the monomer of natural (c) Novolac (d) Polystyrene
rubber?
Q18. What is the order of a self-catalyzed polyesterification
(a) Butadiene (b) Neoprene
reaction?
(c) Isoprene (d) Chloroprene
(a) 2 (b) 3
Q7. Vulcanization is carried out with which element? (c) 1 (d) 4
(a) Sulphur (b) Phosphorous
Q19. Which of the following is true about polymer systems
(c) Oxygen (d) Chlorine
in polycondensation?
Q8. X on polymerisation gives neoprene. Identify X. (a) have higher viscosity than small non-polymeric
(a) 2-Methyl-1,3-butadiene molecules
(b) 1-Chloro-1,3-butadiene (b) insoluble beyond a critical molecular weight
(c) 2-Chloro-1,3-butadiene (c) all of the mentioned
(d) 1-Methyl-1,3-butadiene (d) none of the mentioned
Q9. Molecular mass of polymers are expressed as a/an Q20. Which order kinetics does a strong acid catalyzed
(a) average (b) median polyesterification reaction follow?
(c) mode (d) percentage (a) 1 (b) 2
(c) 3 (d) 4
Q10. The polydispersity index of natural polymers is
(a) >1.2 (b) 0 Q21. What is true about an end functional group, having a
(c) <0.8 (d) 1 terminal reactive centre, of a polymer molecule?
(a) cannot be determined
Q11. Calculate the number average molecular mass of a
(b) has a greater mobility than the polymer molecule
polymer having four different monomers A, B, C and D
as a whole
present in equal number. The molecular masses of the
(c) has a lower mobility than the polymer molecule as
monomers are 10000, 15000, 30000 and 50000
a whole
respectively.
(d) same as polymer molecule
(a) 35475 (b) 10050
(c) 17350 (d) 26250 Q22. How does the reaction rate vary with increasing extent
of reaction beyond 94% conversion in self catalyzed
Q12. Which of the following is a non-biodegradable
reaction?
polymer?
(a) none of the mentioned (b) decreases
(a) PHBV (b) PHB
(c) increases (d) remains same
(c) PGA (d) LDPE
Q23. The average functionality of a polyfunctional system is
Q13. Identify the biodegradable polymer from the
2.4. What will be the average degree of polymerization
following.
for 80% completion of reaction?
(a) Polylactic acid
(a) 2.97 (b) 20.55
(b) Polyvinyl chloride
(c) 27.67 (d) 50.3
(c) Polypropylene
(d) Polystyrene Q24. Which tree gives out the latex to obtain natural
rubber?
Q14. What are the monomers of PHBV?
(a) eucalyptus
(a) 2-Hydroxybutanoic acid, 2-hydroxypentanoic acid
(b) hevea brasiliensis
(b) 2-Hydroxybutanoic acid, 3-hydroxypentanoic acid
(c) anogeissus
(c) 3-Hydroxybutanoic acid, 2-hydroxypentanoic acid
(d) astragalus
(d) 3-Hydroxybutanoic acid, 3-hydroxypentanoic acid
Q25. Which substance is added to the dilute latex to prevent (a) If both Assertion and Reason are correct and the
darkening of latex? Reason is a correct explanation of the Assertion.
(a) potassium sulfate (b) sodium bisulfite (b) If both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason
(c) potassium sulfite (d) sodium sulfate is not a correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) If the Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
Q26. Which component has the maximum composition in
(d) If the Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct.
the Hevea rubber latex?
(a) sugars (b) rubber hydrocarbon Q3. Assertion (A): Low density polythene is used in the
(c) water (d) proteins insulation of electricity carrying wires.
Reason (R): Low density polythene is chemically inert
Q27. Consider the following statements about
and tough.
hydrocarbons of natural rubber and gutta percha.
(a) If both Assertion and Reason are correct and the
I. They have same elementary formula.
Reason is a correct explanation of the Assertion.
II. They have same molecular weight.
(b) If both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason
III. Rubber hydrocarbon has low specific gravity than
is not a correct explanation of the Assertion.
gutta percha.
(c) If the Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
Which of the following statements are true?
(d) If the Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct.
(a) I only (b) I, III
(c) I, II, III (d) II, III Q4. Assertion (A): Zeigler-Natta catalyst is a mixture of
triethylaluminium and titanium tetrachloride.
Q28. What are the sequential processes through which
Reason (R): Zeigler-Natta catalyst is used to make low
rubber latex undergo to give natural rubber?
density polythene.
(a) tapping-preservation-coagulation
(a) If both Assertion and Reason are correct and the
(b) preservation-tapping-coagulation
Reason is a correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) tapping-coagulation-preservation
(b) If both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason
(d) coagulation-tapping-preservation
is not a correct explanation of the Assertion.
Q29. How much would the unsaturation of cyclized rubber (c) If the Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
reduce to its original when it forms polycyclic (d) If the Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct.
structure?
Q5. Assertion (A): 5% of sulphur is added to natural
(a) 57-60% (b) 20-30%
rubber for manufacturing tyre tubes.
(c) 40% (d) 70%
Reason (R): It acts as a cross linking agent and thus
Q30. What kind of product is obtained on chlorination of makes the rubber stiffer.
natural rubber? (a) If both Assertion and Reason are correct and the
(a) elastomer (b) thermoplastic Reason is a correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) resinous (d) none of the mentioned (b) If both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason
is not a correct explanation of the Assertion.
ASSERTION AND REASONING (c) If the Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
(d) If the Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct.
Q1. Assertion: Teflon has high thermal stability and
chemical inertness. TRUE/FALSE
Reason: Teflon is a thermoplastic.
(a) If both Assertion and Reason are correct and the Q1. Polyester fibres are obtained from petroleum
Reason is a correct explanation of the Assertion. products.
(b) If both Assertion and Reason are correct but (a) True (b) False
Reason is not a correct explanation of the
Q2. Terylene, a synthetic fibre, can be used instead of wool.
Assertion.
(a) True (b) False
(c) If the Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
(d) If the Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct. Q3. Rayon, which is obtained from cellulose, is a natural
fibre.
Q2. Assertion: Bakelite is a thermosetting polymer.
(a) True (b) False
Reason: Bakelite can be melted again and again
without any change. Q4. Proteins are natural polymers.
(a) True (b) False
 SOLUTIONS
S1. (c) Nylon is a polymer which contains nitrogen. formed by the combination of two monomers by
Nylon has amide linkages the elimination of a small molecule like water or
methyl alcohol.
S6. (c) Cross-linked polymers are usually formed from
bifunctional and trifunctional monomers and
Nylon is used in making bristles for brushes, in the contain strong covalent bonds between various
manufacture of cords, sheets, ropes etc. linear polymer chains.
S2. (c) Teflon (PTFA), Styron (Polystyrene) and Neoprene For example, bakelite, melamine, vulcanized
are all homopolymers formed by single monomers rubber.
tetrafluoroethylene, styrene and chloroprene. Polythene is a linear polymer of monomer ethene.

S7. (d) Glyptal is a condensation or step growth polymer

of ethylene glycol and phthalic acid.

S3. (b) The repeating unit (i.e., monomer) in nylon-6 is -

amino caproyic acid

S8. (d) The given structure in the question is a nylon 6,6

polymer. It is a copolymer because it is made up of
two types of monomer, adipic acid, and
hexamethylenediamine.

S4. (d) Neoprene is not a condensation polymer. It is an

addition polymer.
Neoprene is made from monomer chloroprene (2-
chlorobuta-1,3-diene).
Dacron, Melamine and Glyptal are condensation
polymers.
Dacron ( also known as terylene) is a polyester
made by condensation polymerisation of ethylene
glycol and dimethyl terephthalate S9. (a) Polyvinyl Chloride is a “thermoplastic”. Polyvinyl
Glyptal is a copolymer of ethylene glycol and Chloride (PVC or Vinyl) is a high strength
phthalic acid. thermoplastic material widely used in
Melamine ( or formaldehyde melamine polymer) applications, such as pipes, medical devices, wire
is obtained from condensation polymerisation of and cable insulation and the list is endless. It is the
melamine with formaldehyde. world’s third-most widely produced synthetic
plastic polymer.
S5. (d) On the basis of the mode of their formation, the
polymers can be classified as addition polymers S10. (a) The synthetic polymer neoprene (polymer of
and condensation polymers. chloroprene) resembles natural rubber because
Addition polymers are formed by chain growth chemically it has a close resemblance to natural
polymerization and condensation polymers are rubber which is a polymer of isoprene.
S11. (a) A thermoplastic, or thermosoftening plastic, is a
S18. (c) Buna-S Rubber: It is a random co-polymer formed
plastic polymer material that becomes pliable or
by the emulsion polymerisation of a mixture of 1,3
moldable at a certain elevated temperature and
butadiene and styrene in the presence of peroxide
solidifies upon cooling.
catalyst at 5 degree Celsius and therefore the
Thermosetting plastics can't be remoulded or reused.
product is called as cold rubber.
S12. (b) Elastomers are the long chain polymers with
elasticity and a cross-linkage in structure. Nylon-
66 are not elastomers they are condensation
polymers formed by adipic acid and
hexamethylenediamine. Vulcanised rubber is an
example of elastomers.
S19. (c) The S in buna-S refers to styrene, it is
ethenylbenzene as shown in the above image.
Buna-S and buna-N both are the types of synthetic
rubbers.

S13. (d) S20. (b) The repeating unit of PTFE is F2C=CF2.

The above image explains the formation of PTFE by process
S14. (c) Bakelite (as shown in the figure) is formed by
of polymerisation.
condensation reaction of phenol with
formaldehyde.
Polythene is an addition polymer formed by
addition of ethene monomer.
Teflon is an addition polymer formed by carbon
tetraflouride.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is formed by addition of S21. (a) The nitrogen-bonded hydrogens of one nylon
vinyl chloride molecules. It is an addition polymer. chain form strong hydrogen bonds with the
carbonyl oxygens of another nylon chain. These
hydrogen bonds make crystals of nylon very
strong because they hold the nylon chains together
very tightly. These strong crystals make strong
fibers.

S15. (b) Polyvinyl alcohol can be prepared by alkaline

hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate.
S16. (b) Rubber is a natural polymer but not a natural S22. (c) Nylon-6,6 is synthesised by polycondensation of
biopolymer. While starch protein and nucleic acid adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine
are the Biopolymer. (hexanediamine).
S17. (d) Bakelite is an example of a thermosetting polymer
and also a type of phenol-formaldehyde polymers.
These are obtained by the condensation reaction
of phenol with formaldehyde in the presence of
either an acid or a base catalyst. The reaction starts
with the initial formation of o− and/or
p−hydroxymethyl phenols derivatives, which
further react with phenol to form compounds
having rings joined to each other through −CH2
groups.
S23. (d) Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a S28. (b) Cellulose is a natural fibre. Starch and rubber are
condensation polymer. also natural polymers but these do not produce
fibres.
S29. (c) Glyptal is a polyester modified by the addition of
fatty acids and other components. They are
derived from polyols and a dicarboxylic acid or
carboxylic acid anhydride.
Alkyds (like Glyptal) are used in paints and in
moulds for casting.
They are the dominant resin or binder in most
commercial oil-based coatings.
S30. (a) Sucrose is not a polymer. It is a disaccharide. It
Polystyrene is an addition polymer of styrene. contains only 2 sugar units.
Neoprene is formed by the free radical
polymerisation of chloroprene. It is an addition
polymer.
PAN is prepared by free radical addition
polymerisation.
S24. (b) A polymer derived from more than one species of
monomer is a co-polymer e.g. Nylon - 6,6.
All others are formed by following single
monomers:
Polytetrafluoroethylene - tetrafluoroethylene,
Polyvinyl chloride - vinyl chloride,
Polyethylene - ethylene and S31. (a) Teflon is fully fluorinated polymer. Its monomer is
Natural rubber or polyisoprene - isoprene (2- tetrafluoro ethylene, F2C=CF2.
methyl-1,3-butadiene). Neoprene is made from monomer chloroprene (2-
S25. (a) Caprolactam is used for the manufacture of Nylon chlorobuta-1,3-diene).
- 6.
Caprolactam is heated at 533 K in an inert
atmosphere to form Nylon - 6.
Thiokol is an organic polysulfide polymer.
PVC is polyvinyl chloride. Its monomer is vinyl
chloride.

S26. (b) Ethylene glycol on reaction with terephthalic acid

forms the polymer terylene (also known as Dacron S32. (a) Orlon has a unit of vinyl cyanide also called prop-
or terylene) which is used as synthetic fibre. 2-ene-nitrile.

S33. (a) Cellulose is a biodegradable polymer. Different

enzymes secreted by bacteria digest it. Synthetic
polymers like polyvinyl chloride, nylon-6,
polyester, polyethene etc.) are not acted upon by
bacteria and hence, are nonbiodegradable.
S27. (b) Bakelite is a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde S34. (b) The strength of polymers is as:
resin, formed from elimination reaction of phenol Elastomers < Thermoplastic < Fibre
with formaldehyde. Fibers have the strongest bonds in the structure.
S35. (c) Nylon 6, 6 is used in making sheets, bristles for
brushes and in the textile industry.
S36. (a)
S44. (d) A thermoplastic is a polymer that becomes pliable
S37. (c) Polythene, polystyrene, polyvinyls are the
or moldable above a specific temperature and
thermoplastic polymers, Characteristics of
returns to a solid state upon cooling.
thermoplastic polymers- These are linear and
Nylon is a thermoplastic silky material that can be
slightly branched long chain molecules, These are
melt-processed into fibers, films, or shapes.
capable of repeatedly softening on heating and
Polyethylene is a lightweight, durable
hardening on cooling, These possess
thermoplastic with a variable crystalline structure.
intermolecular forces of attraction intermediate
Polyethylene terephthalate or Terylene is the most
between elastomers and fibers.
common thermoplastic polymer resin of the
S38. (d) Glycogen is a polysaccharide made up of almost polyester family and is used in fibers for clothing,
2000−200000 units of α−D glucose, it is a containers for liquids, and foods.
branched structure, there are two types of bonds All the given compounds are thermoplastic
present in glycogen as the α 1-4 glycosidic and α 1- polymers.
6 glycosidic bond.
S45. (b) Vulcanization is a chemical process in which the
Glycogen stores in cells of liver and muscles and
rubber is heated with sulphur at 373K to 415K.
gives the red colour with iodine also it is named as
The process involves the formation of cross-links
animal starch.
between long rubber molecules so as to achieve
S39. (c) Above reaction explains the polymerization improved elasticity, resilience, tensile strength,
reaction of Terylene viscosity, hardness and weather resistance.
S46. (b) : Low density polythene: It is obtained by the
polymerisation of ethane under high pressure of
1000 to 2000 atmosphere at a temperature of 350
K to 570 K in the presence of traces of dioxygen or
a peroxide initiator (catalyst). They are flexible in
nature.
S47. (c) Natural rubber is an addition polymer that is
obtained as a milky white fluid known as the latex
from a tropical rubber tree. Natural rubber is from
the monomer isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene).
S40. (c) The formation of vulcanised rubber- Since isoprene has two double bonds, it still retains
To improve these physical properties, water one of them after the polymerization reaction.
repellent Natural rubber has the cis configuration for the
Less water absorption methyl groups.
Resist for oxidising agents
S48. (d) Nylon 6,6 is obtained by condensation
Strength
polymerisation of adipic acid and
a process of vulcanisation is carried out. This
hexamethylenediamine,
process consists of heating a mixture of raw rubber
Nylon 6, 6 is used in making sheets, bristles for
with sulphur and an appropriate additive at a
brushes and in the textile industry.
temperature range between 373 K to 415 K. On
vulcanisation, sulphur forms cross links at the
reactive sites of double bonds and thus the rubber
gets stiffened.
S49. (a) cis-polyisoprene is not a semisynthetic polymer
S41. (b) Starch, cellulose and proteins are purely polymeric whereas other are semisynthetic polymers.
or naturally occurring polymers composed in large
parts of polymeric components. Nylon and PVC are S50. (d) All polymers cannot form fibres. The key
synthetic polymers. requirement of a fibre forming polymer is that the
molecule must be linear. This permits their side by
S42. (a) Neoprene and Teflon are formed by addition side alignment.
polymerization while terylene and nylon-6,6 are
formed by condensation polymerization. ASSERTION AND REASONING
S43. (a) Polyamides have the amide linkage.
Example- Nylon 6-6, Nylon 6
S1. (d) Most of the synthetic polymers are not persulphate catalyst at high pressures. It is
biodegradable. Because a large number of chemically inert and resistant to attack by
polymers are quite resistant to the environmental corrosive reagents. It is used in making oil seals
degradation processes and are thus responsible and gaskets and also used for non-stick surface
for the accumulation of polymeric solid waste coated utensils.
materials.
TRUE/FALSE
S2. (a) In addition, polymerisation, the molecules of the
same monomer of different monomers add
together on a large scale to form a polymer. The S1. (b) Synthetic fibre is polymer, while plastic is not a
monomers used are unsaturated compounds, e.g., polymer.
alkenes, alkadienes and their derivatives. This S2. (b) Polymers are large molecules made by stringing
mode of polymerisation leading to an increase in together several monomers (small molecules).
chain length or chain growth can take place
through the formation of either free radicals or S3. (b) Blended fabrics contain both synthetic and natural
ionic species. fibres. They are produced by the combination of
synthetic fibres and natural fibres.
S3. (a) Thermosetting polymers: These polymers are
cross linked or heavily branched molecules, which S4. (b) Dusters made of cotton (natural fibre) are good for
on heating undergo extensive cross linking in use in kitchen. They absorb water and do not catch
moulds and again become infusible. fire easily. Even if they catch fire, they do not stick
to the body of the person who is holding it.
S4. (a) Teflon is manufactured by heating
tetrafluoroethene with a free radical or
 HOMEWORK

S1. (d) Nylon-6: It is obtained by heating caprolactum homogeneous and monodisperse, with a PDI of
with water at a high temperature. approximately 1.
S2. (b), (c) S11. (d) Since the 4 monomers are present in equal
amount, there is 25% of each monomer in the
polymer. The number average molecular mass is,
⇒ Mn = (25×10000 + 25×15000 + 25×30000 +
25×50000)/(25+25+25+25)
Neoprene or polychloroprene is formed by the free ⇒ Mn = (250000+375000+750000+1250000)/
radical polymerisation of chloroprene. 100
⇒ Mn = 2625000/100
⇒ Mn = 26250.
S12. (d) Low density polyethylene is a plastic that cannot
S3. (a), (c) Thermosetting polymers: These polymers be decomposed by the abiotic sources and
are cross linked or heavily branched molecules, microorganisms and have a harmful effect on the
which on heating undergo extensive cross linking environment.
in moulds and again become infusible. These S13. (a) Polylactic acid (PLA) is one of the most common
cannot be reused. bioplastics which can be easily broken down by
S4. (c) Novolac is a linear chain phenol-formaldehyde soil microorganisms and does not cause any
polymer. The ortho and para hydroxy derivatives negative effects on the environment. It is a
of benzyl alcohol, initially formed by the reaction polyester made from lactic acid and lactide.
of phenol with HCHO, further react with phenol to S14. (d) PHBV is short for poly β-hydroxybutyrate-co-β-
form compounds having benzene rings joined hydroxy valerate. This shows that is a copolymer
together by -CH2– links (Novolac). of β-hydroxybutyrate (3-hydroxybutanoic acid)
S5. (c) Bock copolymers are those in which blocks of each and β-hydroxy valerate (3-hydroxypentanoic
type of monomer alternate with each other. In this acid). PHBV is biodegradable as it can be
case, the block AAAA and block BBB are decomposed by bacteria.
alternatively repeated after each other. S15. (d) PMMA is a polymer of methyl methacrylate. It is
S6. (c) Isoprene (or 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) repeats used in the manufacturing of lenses, dentures,
itself in a linear chain to form natural rubber. This aircrafts windows, etc. It is known by the
is also called as cis-1,4-polyisoprene, in which the commercial names plexiglass, lucite, acrylite,
monomers are linked by weak van der Waals perspex and crylux. Vectran is an aromatic
forces, thus making it elastic in nature. polyester.

S7. (a) Vulcanization is a process of improving the S16. (d) Glyptal is a copolymer of ethylene glycol and
physical properties of natural rubber by phthalic acid. It is an important component in the
introducing sulphur cross-links at the reactive manufacturing of paints, lacquers and building
sites of double bonds. This is done by heating the materials.
rubber with sulphur and an additive. S17. (b) Urea formaldehyde is a thermosetting resin
S8. (c) Neoprene or polyisoprene is a synthetic rubber polymer produced by the condensation of urea and
obtained from the addition polymerisation of methanal. It is used in making unbreakable cups
chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene) through and laminated sheets.
free radical mechanism. It has a better stability S18. (b) For each step of reaction between a –COOH group
towards oxidation than natural rubber. and –OH group, a second functional group –COOH
S9. (a) The length of polymer and their molecular mass acts as a catalyst in the reaction. Therefore, the
depends on the number of monomers available for reaction follows the third order kinetics.
reaction. As a result, the chain lengths of polymers S19. (c) The medium viscosity in polymer systems is much
are varying and are expressed as an average. higher than the systems of small non-polymeric
S10. (d) Natural polymers generally have chains of molecules. Besides, there tend to become insoluble
identical lengths and have definite molecular after a certain range of chain length or molecular
masses (Mw=Mn). This makes them more weight.
S20. (b) This reaction is achieved by addition of a strong S30. (c) The chlorinated rubber formed by chlorination of
acid catalyst, which is not utilized in the reaction natural rubber is resinous in character while
as in self catalyzed reaction. So, the reaction natural rubber is elastomeric in nature.
clearly, follows second order kinetics.
ASSERTION AND REASONING
S21. (b) The functional group at a free end has a good
degree of mobility to collide and faster reaction to
take place. S1. (b) Teflon is classified as a thermoplastic because it is
capable of repeatedly softening on heating (it will
S22. (b) The reaction rate decreases with increasing extent only melt and soften under extreme temperatures)
of reaction beyond 94%. The factors responsible and hardening on cooling.
are loss of reactants, difficulty in removal of Teflon's thermal stability and chemical inertness
byproduct molecule due to high viscosity and are due to its high C−C bond energy.
other side reactions. So, both Assertion and Reason are correct but
S23. (c) Using the formula, Reason is not the correct explanation for
p = (2/f)[1-(1/Xn)] and putting the values of f=2.4 Assertion.
and p=0.8, we get the value of Xn as 27.67. S2. (c) Bakelite is a thermosetting polymer which are
S24. (b) Hevea tree produces a milk-white latex that cross linked or heavily branched molecules, which
contains the natural rubber hydrocarbon present on heating undergo extensive cross-linking in
in the form of fine emulsion in an aqueous serum moulds and again become infusible. This can not
which is then later processed to give natural be reused means it can't regain their original shape
rubber. after melting.

S25. (b) A little amount of sodium bisulfite is added to the S3. (b)
dilute latex before tapping to prevent darkening or S4. (c) Ziegler Natta catalyst is a mixture of
discoloration of the latex which may otherwise triethylaluminium and titanium tetrachloride i.e.
develop as a consequence of an enzymatic reaction Al(C2H5)3 +TiCl4. It is used for polymerization of
in the latex involving its phenolic constituents alkenes to produce polymers.
producing the dark coloured pigment melanin.
S5. (a)
S26. (c) Hevea latex consist of 55-65 % of water, 30-40% of
rubber hydrocarbon while proteins and sugars are TRUE/FALSE
present in little amount.
S1. (a)
S27. (b) The hydrocarbons of natural rubber and gutta
percha are the same in elementary formula and in S2. (b) Acrylic is a synthetic fibre that can be used instead
their products of ozonolysis. Gutta percha has a of wool.
lower molecular weight than natural rubber and so
S3. (b) Rayon, which is obtained from cellulose, is a
natural rubber is less dense than gutta percha.
synthetic fibre. Rayon is prepared chemically from
S28. (a) The rubber latex from hevea tree firstly undergoes wood pulp (cellulose).
tapping, then it is preserved using a preservative
S4. (a) There are two types of polymers: synthetic and
like sodium pentachlorophenate followed by natural. Synthetic polymers are derived from
coagulation using acetic acid o formic acid.
petroleum oil, and made by scientists and
S29. (b) Cyclization reaction of rubber leading to the engineers. Examples of synthetic polymers include
formation of bi- or even polycyclic structures nylon, polyethylene, polyester, Teflon, and epoxy.
result in the reduction in unsaturation to 20-30% Natural polymers occur in nature and can be
of the original rubber, while the formation of extracted. They are often water-based. Examples
monocyclic structure lead to the drop in of naturally occurring polymers are silk, natural
unsaturation by 57% of original. rubber, wool, DNA, cellulose and proteins