Identify the polymer produced from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol in polyester chemistry.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Terylene (polyethylene terephthalate, PET)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Matching monomers to their resultant polymers is a frequent exam task. Here, the diacid–diol pair points to a condensation polyester used extensively in fibres and bottles.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Terephthalic acid (or dimethyl terephthalate) and ethylene glycol are the monomers.
  • We assume standard melt polycondensation.
  • Trade name “terylene” is commonly used for PET fibres.



Concept / Approach:
Condensation of terephthalic acid with ethylene glycol forms polyethylene terephthalate (PET), known as terylene in fibre applications. Nylon-66 is a polyamide (diamine + diacid), PVC is an addition polymer from vinyl chloride, and polystyrene is from styrene; none match the given monomers.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Map monomers: terephthalic acid + ethylene glycol → PET.Relate PET to the trade name “terylene”.Eliminate other options due to mismatched monomers.



Verification / Alternative check:
Polyester process flowsheets show esterification/transesterification followed by polycondensation giving PET chips for fibre and bottle-grade resin.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Nylon-66 uses hexamethylene diamine + adipic acid.PVC and polystyrene are addition polymers of vinyl chloride and styrene, respectively.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “nylon” (polyamide) with “polyester” due to similar applications in fibres.



Final Answer:
Terylene (polyethylene terephthalate, PET)

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