Problem 23 - Chemistry in 30 days

Question

\(\mathrm{F}_{2} \mathrm{C}=\mathrm{CF}_{2}\) is a monomer of (a) Teflon (b) Glyptal (c) Nylon-6 (d) Buna-5

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Option (a): Teflon.

Step 1: Understand the provided chemical formula

The formula given in the problem is \(\mathrm{F}_{2} \mathrm{C} = \mathrm{CF}_{2}\). This is commonly written as \(\text{CF}_2=\text{CF}_2\). This is the chemical composition of tetrafluoroethylene, which is a key monomer used in the production of certain polymers.

Step 2: Identify the polymer formed from the monomer

Tetrafluoroethylene (\(\text{C}_2\text{F}_4\)) is a gaseous monomer that is primarily used to produce polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is more commonly known as Teflon, which is widely used as a non-stick coating in cookware.

Step 3: Correlate monomer with given options

From the given options, match the monomer \(\text{CF}_2=\text{CF}_2\) with the polymer they form. Teflon is the polymer derived from the polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene.

Key Concepts

Monomer

In chemistry, a monomer is a simple molecule that can join with other similar molecules to form a larger structure called a polymer. Think of monomers as building blocks, similar to individual Lego pieces. They are usually small, and when they connect in a repeating fashion, they make something bigger and more complex. For instance, tetrafluoroethylene, denoted as \(\mathrm{CF}_2=\mathrm{CF}_2\), is a monomer that plays a crucial role in forming polymers.

Polymerization

Polymerization is the process where monomers, such as tetrafluoroethylene, link together to form a polymer. Imagine stringing beads on a necklace, where each bead represents a monomer and the whole necklace is the polymer. In the case of tetrafluoroethylene, it undergoes a reaction to form polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This process involves the double bonds in tetrafluoroethylene opening up and connecting multiple molecules together to create a long chain.

Teflon

Teflon is the popular name for the polymer polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is created from the polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene. Teflon is known for its non-stick properties, making it ideal for cookware. It's also resistant to heat, chemical reactions, and has a low level of friction. These properties make it invaluable not just in kitchens but in various industrial applications, such as in electrical insulation and sealing materials.

Chemical formula interpretation

Understanding chemical formulas is crucial in chemistry. The formula \(\mathrm{CF}_2=\mathrm{CF}_2\) represents tetrafluoroethylene, indicating two carbon atoms ( C) double-bonded and each bonded to two fluorine atoms (F). Here's a simple way to interpret it:

• The symbol \(\mathrm{C}\) stands for carbon, while \(\mathrm{F}\) stands for fluorine.
• The subscript '2' means there are two of these atoms.
• The '=' sign indicates a double bond between the carbon atoms.

Recognizing how these atoms connect gives insight into the behavior and reactivity of the molecule, such as how it can form extensive chains in polymerization.