Question

A polymer of ethylene chloride and sodium poly sulphide is? (a) Thiokol (b) Melamine (c) Glyptal (d) Perlon \(\mathrm{L}\)

Short answer

Thiokol is the polymer made from ethylene chloride and sodium polysulfide.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Polymer Components

The problem mentions a polymer composed of ethylene chloride and sodium polysulfide. Start by recognizing that ethylene chloride is often associated with polymers that can create flexible materials.

Determine Polymer Types

Examine the options. - Thiokol is known for being a synthetic rubber made from ethylene dichloride and sodium polysulfide. - Melamine is a resin used for its heat resistance and is unrelated. - Glyptal is used in paints and coatings and not made from these components. - Perlon L is a type of nylon, also not made from these components.

Match Components to Polymers

Identify which option matches the known components. Thiokol fits the polymer made from ethylene dichloride and sodium polysulfide, used in making rubber materials.

Key concepts

Thiokol

Thiokol is a fascinating type of synthetic rubber. Synthesized through the polymerization process, it primarily involves the combination of ethylene dichloride and sodium polysulfide.
These components are carefully reacted to form a flexible, durable material utilized in various industries. One of the key uses of Thiokol is in the production of seals and gaskets. This is due to its impressive ability to withstand a wide range of temperatures while maintaining elasticity.
Additionally, Thiokol's chemical resistance makes it a preferred choice for applications that involve exposure to oils and solvents. Other notable applications include:

• Aerospace: Used for protective coatings and flexible parts due to its durable and flexible qualities.
• Automotive: Employed in the automotive industry for hoses and other parts.
• Industrial: Implements in manufacturing processes that require non-reactive, stable polymers.

This adaptability underscores Thiokol's importance in polymer chemistry, representing an exciting fusion of science and practical engineering.

Ethylene Chloride

Ethylene chloride, often referred to by its chemical counterparts like ethylene dichloride, is a pivotal compound in polymer chemistry.
It is particularly known for its role in producing flexible polymers.This chemical is a chlorinated hydrocarbon with the formula C\(_2\)H\(_4\)Cl\(_2\). It's typically used as an intermediate in the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), which subsequently leads to polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
However, in the context of the polymer concerned here, ethylene chloride works synergistically with sodium polysulfide.Some significant features of ethylene chloride include:

• Solvent Properties: Useful in various industrial applications, thanks to its ability to dissolve a wide array of compounds.
• Bonding Capabilities: Enables stable and flexible chemical bonds when polymerizing.
• Versatility: Serves as a building block for more complex polymers such as Thiokol.

Understanding ethylene chloride's behavior in chemical processes helps in grasping how polymers like Thiokol are innovatively engineered.

Sodium Polysulfide

Sodium polysulfide is another chemical powerhouse in the creation of specialized polymers.
Known chemically for its ability to extend polymer chains, it forms the backbone for flexible and rubber-like materials, like those seen in Thiokol.Its formula, \(\text{Na}_2\text{S}_x\), where \(x\) represents a variable number determining the polymer's attributes, permits diverse adjustments to the final material's properties.
It binds with structures like ethylene chloride to craft polymers that can withstand tough conditions.In practical terms, sodium polysulfide exhibits:

• Elasticity: Provides the flexibility essential for applications in wear and pressure-resistant environments.
• Chemical Resilience: Offers durability and resistance to aggressive substances, making it suitable for challenging industrial uses.
• Stability: Ensures that materials can endure varying temperatures and stresses without degrading.

By examining sodium polysulfide's role in polymer synthesis, one gains insights into how chemical compounds transform into materials with real-world applications.