Question

Which one of the following monomers gives the polymer neoprene on polymerization? (a) \(\mathrm{CH}_{2}=\mathrm{CH}-\mathrm{Cl}\) (b) \(\mathrm{CCl}_{2}=\mathrm{CCl}_{2}\) (c) C=CC(=C)Cl (d) \(\mathrm{CF}_{2}=\mathrm{CF}_{2}\)

Short answer

Option (c) C=CC(=C)Cl is the monomer for neoprene.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Neoprene

Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber produced via the polymerization of chloroprene. Chloroprene is the common name for 2-chloro-1,3-butadiene. To solve this problem, we need to identify which chemical formula or SMILES code represents chloroprene.

Analyze Options

We have four monomer options to consider.- (a) \(\mathrm{CH}_2=\mathrm{CH}-\mathrm{Cl}\) is vinyl chloride.- (b) \(\mathrm{CCl}_2=\mathrm{CCl}_2\) is tetrachloroethylene.- (c) C=CC(=C)Cl is the SMILES code for chloroprene, which is the structural representation of \(\mathrm{ClC}=\mathrm{C}(\mathrm{CH}_3)\mathrm{CH}_2\).- (d) \(\mathrm{CF}_2=\mathrm{CF}_2\) is tetrafluoroethylene.

Select the Correct Monomer

Based on the analysis, option (c) C=CC(=C)Cl is the SMILES representation for chloroprene. Thus, it is the monomer that, upon polymerization, forms neoprene polymer.

Key concepts

Neoprene

Neoprene is a versatile material widely known for its remarkable features, making it an essential synthetic rubber for various applications. It was one of the first synthetic rubbers ever developed, initially produced by DuPont in 1930. Neoprene is created through the polymerization of chloroprene monomers, allowing it to maintain distinct characteristics not found in natural rubber. One key advantage of neoprene is its exceptional resistance to oil, chemical deterioration, and temperature changes, making it ideal for wet suits, hoses, and belts. Its durability also extends to resilience against physical abrasions, which is why it is commonly used in industrial and mechanical settings. You can think of neoprene as a rubber powerhouse, offering flexibility and toughness, which explains its continued popularity in products that require these properties.

Chloroprene

Chloroprene, also known as 2-chloro-1,3-butadiene, is the foundational monomer from which neoprene is synthesized. As a highly reactive compound, chloroprene undergoes polymerization, a chemical process where its molecules link together, forming long chains known as polymers. In the case of chloroprene, the resulting polymer is poly(chloroprene), more commonly referred to as neoprene. Chloroprene itself is characterized by the presence of a chlorine atom bonded to its carbon structure. This unique substitution significantly contributes to the properties of the resulting neoprene, giving it improved heat resistance and chemical stability compared to other synthetic rubber types. When looking at the chemical formula, chloroprene is represented as C=CC(=C)Cl, highlighting its detailed atomic arrangement, which plays a pivotal role in its ability to transition into the robust material known as neoprene.

Synthetic Rubber

Synthetic rubber, like neoprene, is an artificially created material produced to mimic certain properties of natural rubber, while also offering enhanced performance in some areas. Invented in response to the fluctuating availability and properties of natural rubber, synthetic rubbers are now integral to numerous industries. There are different types of synthetic rubber, each designed for specific applications and qualities. For example, neoprene is celebrated for its general-purpose applications, whereas others like styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) or nitrile rubber (NBR) are valued for their specific resistances, such as to chemicals or cold temperatures. What makes synthetic rubber like neoprene unique is their ability to be tailored through the polymerization process to exhibit desired characteristics, such as elasticity, toughness, and temperature resilience, all of which contribute to modern manufacturing and technology.

SMILES Code

The Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry System, or SMILES, is a notation that provides a way to descriptively represent a molecule's structure using a string of letters and symbols. It's like a shorthand for communicating complex chemical data easily and succinctly. For instance, the SMILES code for chloroprene is C=CC(=C)Cl, which outlines the connectivity and arrangement of atoms within the molecule. Each SMILES sequence acts like a fingerprint for a chemical substance, allowing chemists and researchers to quickly identify and communicate about molecules without the need for extensive diagrams. SMILES is particularly beneficial in computer databases and molecular modeling software, where accuracy in representing molecular structures is crucial. Understanding and using SMILES notation allows scientists to swiftly exchange and interpret chemical information, thus facilitating advances in chemical research and industry applications.