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

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)