Question

Neoprene, Plexiglas and orlon are all (a) homopolymers (b) copolymers (c) step growth polymers (d) fibres

Short answer

Answer: All three materials (Neoprene, Plexiglas, and Orlon) are homopolymers since they are formed from only one type of monomer.

Step-by-step solution

Neoprene

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber produced by the polymerization of chloroprene. It is a homopolymer because it consists of repeating units of chloroprene. So, Neoprene is a homopolymer.

Plexiglas

Plexiglas is essentially the trade name for polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It is made by polymerizing methyl methacrylate monomers. As it consists of only one type of monomer, PMMA is also a homopolymer.

Orlon

Orlon, also known as acrylic, is a synthetic fiber made from acrylonitrile (AN) monomers. The AN monomers undergo polymerization to form polyacrylonitrile, which is then spun into fibers. Orlon consists of only one type of monomer, so it is considered a homopolymer. Based on the information provided, all three materials (Neoprene, Plexiglas, and Orlon) are homopolymers since they are formed from only one type of monomer. Thus, the answer to the exercise is: (a) homopolymers

Key concepts

Neoprene

Derived from chloroprene, neoprene is a highly versatile synthetic rubber that's used for a broad range of applications such as wetsuits, gaskets, and hoses.

This material is well-loved due to its excellent chemical stability and ability to maintain flexibility over a wide temperature range. Neoprene's production involves polymerization, a chemical reaction where monomers link to form long chains – in this case, linking chloroprene units. The process generates a stable homopolymer, which means all the repeating units in its structure are identical. Understanding neoprene’s properties and manufacture highlights the remarkable adaptability of synthetic polymers and their relevance in our daily lives.

Plexiglas

Plexiglas, or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), exemplifies the clarity and shatter-resistance coveted in many applications like windows, lenses, and barriers.

The clear, glass-like appearance makes it a perfect substitute for glass, being lighter and more impact resistant. Derived from methyl methacrylate monomers, Plexiglas is produced via polymerization, forming a clear and rigid homopolymer. This is another instance of synthetic polymers revolutionizing industries by offering materials with tailored properties for specific uses. Insight into Plexiglas production not only aids in understanding material engineering but also contributes to grasping the larger context of materials science.

Orlon

Known commercially as Orlon, polyacrylonitrile is a synthetic fiber renowned for its wool-like feel, making it a popular choice for clothing.

Orlon is produced by the polymerization of acrylonitrile monomers. This process results in a strong, durable, and warm fiber that retains its shape and resists shrinkage and wrinkles. As a homopolymer, Orlon exhibits uniformity in its structure, providing predictable and reliable properties for textiles. The development of Orlon represents a significant step in fiber technology and material innovation, expanding possibilities in fashion and textile industries.

Polymerization

At the heart of creating many synthetic materials is the process called polymerization. It's a chemical reaction where small molecules, known as monomers, join together to form long, repeating chains.

There are several types of polymerization, including addition polymerization and condensation polymerization. Neoprene, Plexiglas, and Orlon are all products of addition polymerization where monomers add to each other without the loss of any small molecules. This concept is crucial in chemistry and material science as it is the foundation for creating various synthetic polymers, each with distinct properties suitable for unique applications.

Synthetic Polymers

Synthetic polymers are man-made materials engineered through the polymerization of monomers. They are designed to serve specific functions that natural polymers can't fulfill.

Common synthetic polymers include nylon, polyester, and the ones discussed previously – neoprene, Plexiglas, and Orlon. Every synthetic polymer exhibits unique characteristics tailored to its intended use, be it flexibility, durability, or resistance to environmental factors. These materials have profoundly altered various sectors by providing alternatives to traditionally used substances and have become indispensable in modern manufacturing and technology.