Question

What are the monomers used to synthesize Bakelite?

• A. Ethene and Styrene
• B. Phenol and Formaldehyde
• C. Urea and Formaldehyde
• D. Ethylene glycol and Terephthalic acid

Hint:

Bakelite is a thermosetting phenol–formaldehyde resin formed by condensation polymerization between phenol and formaldehyde.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To determine the correct monomers used in the synthesis of Bakelite, we need to understand the chemical composition of Bakelite. Bakelite is an early plastic known for its non-conductive and heat-resistant properties. It is a type of phenolic resin. The synthesis of Bakelite involves a polymerization reaction.

The monomers involved in the formation of Bakelite are:

• Phenol
• Formaldehyde

The polymerization reaction occurs through the condensation of phenol with formaldehyde which forms a hardened, cross-linked polymer. This polymerization process leads to the creation of a thermosetting phenol-formaldehyde resin, commonly referred to as Bakelite.

Let's evaluate each option:

1. Ethene and Styrene: These are monomers for different types of plastics, such as polyethene (from ethene) and polystyrene (from styrene). They are not used to make Bakelite.
2. Phenol and Formaldehyde: This pair is responsible for the formation of the phenolic resin known as Bakelite through a condensation reaction.
3. Urea and Formaldehyde: These are used to create urea-formaldehyde resins, which are different from Bakelite.
4. Ethylene glycol and Terephthalic acid: These are used in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), not Bakelite.

Hence, the correct answer is: Phenol and Formaldehyde.