Question

A polymer of prop-2-ene nitrile is called (a) Tetron (b) Saran (c) Orlon (d) Dacron

Short answer

The polymer of prop-2-ene nitrile is Orlon, option (c).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Structure of Prop-2-ene Nitrile

Prop-2-ene nitrile is an organic compound consisting of three carbon atoms with a nitrile group (–CN) attached to the second carbon. This structure is commonly known as acrylonitrile.

Understand Polymer Formation

Polymer of a monomer like prop-2-ene nitrile (acrylonitrile) means combining multiple units of the same monomer to form a long chain or network. This process is known as polymerization.

Recognize the Trade Name

A polymer formed from acrylonitrile is commercially known as Orlon. This polymer is used in the production of acrylic fibers.

Select the Correct Answer

Given the options, the polymer of prop-2-ene nitrile corresponds to option (c) Orlon.

Key concepts

Acrylonitrile

Acrylonitrile is a fundamental organic compound that plays a pivotal role in the world of polymer chemistry. It is characterized by a simple yet distinct structure comprising three carbon atoms, with a double bond between two of them and a nitrile group (–CN) attached to the second carbon. This particular configuration earns it the name prop-2-ene nitrile, where 'prop' signifies the presence of three carbon atoms and 'ene' refers to the double bond.
Becoming familiar with acrylonitrile is particularly crucial because it serves as a building block for various significant polymers. This compound is not just a theoretical curiosity; it is practically implemented widely in industries. The nitrile group, specifically, imparts certain desirable properties, such as toughness and resistance to environmental exposure, making acrylonitrile-based polymers ideal for various applications in textiles and plastics.

Polymerization

Polymerization is an essential process in polymer chemistry, where small molecular units, called monomers, are linked together to form a large, repeating molecular chain, known as a polymer. When acrylonitrile undergoes polymerization, multiple acrylonitrile molecules join together in a repeated sequence to form long strands. This transformation is responsible for turning a simple liquid or gas monomer into a solid polymer.
There are two primary types of polymerization:

• **Addition polymerization** - where monomers add to each other without the loss of any small molecules.
• **Condensation polymerization** - where the joining of monomers is accompanied by the elimination of small molecules, such as water.

In the case of acrylonitrile, addition polymerization is typically employed. This process enhances the material's properties, like strength and durability, making it suitable for manufacturing robust acrylic fibers used in a range of textiles. Understanding polymerization is key to exploiting the full potential of materials like acrylonitrile.

Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are a vast and diverse class of chemicals characterized by the presence of carbon atoms, usually in combination with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other elements. These compounds are essentially the backbone of chemistry, with significant implications across biological and synthetic materials.
Acrylonitrile typifies an organic compound with its carbon backbone and functional nitrile group, demonstrating the versatility and complexity that organic compounds can offer. The unique properties of organic compounds make them valuable in all kinds of chemical reactions, particularly in the synthesis of polymers.
These compounds allow the creation of substances with tailor-made properties, necessary for specific industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. Organic compounds like acrylonitrile become indispensable in developing durable materials like synthetic fibers and plastics, showcasing the critical role of organic chemistry in modern science and technology.