Identify the monomer used to produce neoprene (polychloroprene) synthetic rubber in commercial practice.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Neoprene is the trade name for polychloroprene, a versatile synthetic rubber noted for oil resistance, weathering resistance, and good mechanical strength. Knowing its monomer origin clarifies performance attributes and processing behaviour.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The polymer family is polychloroprene.
  • We pick the correct monomer from common diene candidates.



Concept / Approach:
Polychloroprene is formed by polymerising chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene). Although acetylene chemistry historically featured in early monomer syntheses (e.g., for chloroprene manufacture), acetylene is not the monomer polymerised to form neoprene. Isoprene polymerises to natural rubber-like polyisoprene, not neoprene.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Match trade name to chemical family: neoprene → polychloroprene.Identify the exact monomer: chloroprene.Exclude other dienes that yield different rubbers.



Verification / Alternative check:
Rubber technology texts list chloroprene emulsion polymerisation as the standard route to neoprene.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Acetylene: feedstock/intermediate for various chemicals, not the final monomer here.Isoprene: monomer for polyisoprene (natural/synthetic), not neoprene.None: incorrect; a specific correct monomer exists.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing raw feedstocks (used upstream) with the actual polymerised monomer.



Final Answer:
Chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)

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