Problem 22 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Synthetic polymer prepared from caprolactum is known as (a) Teflon (b) Nylon-6 (c) Nylon-610 (d) Terylene

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The synthetic polymer prepared from caprolactam is Nylon-6.

Step 1: Understanding the Problem

The question asks us to identify the synthetic polymer that is prepared from caprolactam. We are given four options: Teflon, Nylon-6, Nylon-610, and Terylene.

Step 2: Identifying the Polymer Source

Caprolactam is a chemical compound used as a monomer to produce certain types of synthetic polymers. Specifically, caprolactam is used in the production of Nylon-6.

Step 3: Matching Polymer with Options

Now that we know caprolactam is used to produce Nylon-6, we need to find the corresponding option. Option (b) is Nylon-6, which matches our identification.

Step 4: Confirming the Answer

It's important to verify that none of the other options (a, c, d) are associated with caprolactam. Teflon is made from tetrafluoroethylene, Nylon-610 is made from hexamethylenediamine and sebacic acid, and Terylene is made from ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. Therefore, none of these match caprolactam.

Key Concepts

Caprolactam

Caprolactam is a crucial component in the field of polymer chemistry, primarily used as a building block for creating synthetic polymers. This organic compound takes the form of a white and solid substance at room temperature. One of the most interesting aspects of caprolactam is that it plays a pivotal role in the creation of Nylon-6, a widely used and versatile polymer.

• As a monomer, caprolactam undergoes a polymerization process, whereby its molecules join together to form long chains, creating the polymer known as Nylon-6.
• The structure of caprolactam features a six-membered ring and has the chemical formula \(C_6H_{11}NO\).
• Its ability to open its ring structure is what allows it to link together, forming the repeating units seen in Nylon-6.

Due to its effectiveness in forming polymers, caprolactam has significant applications in industries ranging from textiles to automotive, impacting our daily lives in numerous ways.

Nylon-6

Nylon-6 is a type of synthetic polymer that has made a significant impact in various industrial applications, and it's derived primarily from caprolactam. The material is known for its exceptional strength, elasticity, and resistance to abrasion, which makes it highly desirable for manufacturing.

• It's used extensively in the production of items such as textiles, carpets, and industrial filaments.
• Nylon-6 is also noted for being able to withstand wear and tear, which boosts its utility in making everyday objects like clothing and packaging materials.
• It boasts a simple chemical structure, repeating units of -\((CH_2)_5CO\) - , resulting from the opening of the caprolactam ring.

The combination of flexibility and durability makes Nylon-6 a staple in numerous sectors, showcasing the versatility of polymers made from simple starting compounds like caprolactam.

Polymer Production

Polymer production is key to manufacturing a variety of materials that are integral to modern life. When discussing the production of polymers like Nylon-6, understanding the polymerization process adds depth to the knowledge of synthetic polymers.

• The polymerization of caprolactam into Nylon-6 is a process called "ring-opening polymerization" where the cyclic caprolactam molecule is opened to form a long polymer chain.
• This process often involves heating caprolactam in the presence of a small amount of water and an initiator, facilitating the breakdown and linking of the caprolactam molecules.
• As polymer production continues to evolve, innovations such as advancements in catalysts and reaction conditions increase the efficiency and sustainability of producing polymers like Nylon-6.

In the broader context, polymer production encompasses various chemical reactions that transform small monomers like caprolactam into diverse synthetic materials, each boasting unique properties and uses.