Adipic acid serves as a key intermediate in making which polymer?
Chemical Engineering
Polymer Technology
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
-
APerspex (PMMA)
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BNylon-6,6 (polyamide 66)
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CPolystyrene
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DBakelite
Answer
Correct Answer: Nylon-6,6 (polyamide 66)
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Monomer identification is crucial for understanding polymer families. Adipic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that pairs with a diamine to form a condensation polyamide via amide linkages.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Nylon-6,6 is synthesized from adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine.
- Other listed polymers use different monomer chemistries.
Concept / Approach:Condensation polymerisation joins adipic acid (HOOC–(CH2)4–COOH) with the diamine to form repeating –CO–NH– bonds and release small molecules (e.g., water). PMMA needs methyl methacrylate; polystyrene needs styrene; Bakelite is from phenol and formaldehyde.
Step-by-Step Solution:Match adipic acid to nylon-6,6.Eliminate polymers with mismatched monomers.
Final Answer:Nylon-6,6 (polyamide 66)