Polystyrene is a typical thermoplastic polymer. Thermoplastics soften when heated and solidify when cooled, allowing them to be molded and remelted repeatedly. This characteristic makes polystyrene suitable for applications including packaging, insulation, and disposable cutlery.
Conversely, Bakelite is a thermosetting polymer. It undergoes irreversible chemical curing and cannot be remelted or reshaped after its initial formation.
Conclusion: Polystyrene is a prime example of a thermoplastic because it can be melted and reshaped multiple times without permanent chemical alteration.% Quicktip