Q24 E - Chemistry (OpenStax)

Question

Teflon is prepared by the polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene. Write the equation that describes the polymerization using Lewis symbols.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The following chemical reaction occurs during the polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene molecules:

Tetrafluoroethylene                              Teflon

Step 1: Use of Teflon

In non-stick cookware, it serves as a coating. This material is used in the manufacture of anti-friction devices. Coating medical appliances (surgical devices) is one of its uses. Traditionally, it has been used to coat laboratory appliances because of its corrosion resistance.

Step 2: Definition of polymerization

Polymerization is a chemical reaction in which two or more tiny monomer units combine to generate a big polymer molecule containing the original molecules' repeating structural elements.

Step 3: Formation of Teflon

Teflon, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene, is made by polymerizing tetrafluoroethylene molecules. The following is the chemical reaction that occurs during the polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene molecules:

Tetrafluoroethylene                              Teflon

 

Teflon is less reactive and hydrophobic in nature. It is used as a non-stick coating for cookware.