Identify the polyolefin among the following polymers (choose the single correct polyolefin).

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Polypropylene

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:Polyolefins are polymers made from simple olefin monomers such as ethylene and propylene. They are ubiquitous due to low cost, chemical resistance, and versatile processing. Distinguishing a polyolefin from other vinyl or diene polymers is a foundational classification task.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Polypropylene (PP) is produced from propylene, a simple olefin → polyolefin.
  • Polystyrene derives from styrene (vinyl aromatic), typically not classed as a polyolefin.
  • Neoprene (polychloroprene) is a chlorinated diene elastomer, not a polyolefin.

Concept / Approach:Polyolefins are saturated hydrocarbon backbones from alpha-olefin monomers (e.g., PE from ethylene, PP from propylene). Polystyrene contains a pendant phenyl group and distinct properties; it is categorised as a vinyl polymer, not a polyolefin. Neoprene contains chlorine and double-bond-derived structure, hence is an elastomer outside the polyolefin family.

Step-by-Step Solution:Identify olefin-based polymer → polypropylene.Eliminate polystyrene (vinyl aromatic) and neoprene (chloroprene rubber).Select polypropylene as the sole polyolefin listed.

Verification / Alternative check:Commodity polymer classifications list PE and PP as the principal polyolefins.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:Polystyrene: not a polyolefin; different monomer family and properties.Neoprene: synthetic rubber; chlorinated diene polymer.None of these: incorrect because PP is indeed a polyolefin.

Common Pitfalls:Generalising “vinyl polymers” and “polyolefins” as the same; they are overlapping but not identical categories.

Final Answer:Polypropylene

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