Question

Which of the following is a natural polymer?

• A. Cellulose
• B. Teflon
• C. Polyvinylchloride
• D. Neoprene rubber

Hint:

Cellulose, starch, proteins, and natural rubber are examples of natural polymers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The task is to distinguish between natural and synthetic polymers from the given options.
Polymers are large molecules (macromolecules) made up of repeating structural units called monomers.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Natural Polymers: These are polymers that occur naturally and are found in plants and animals. Examples include starch, cellulose, proteins, natural rubber, and nucleic acids (DNA/RNA).

Synthetic Polymers: These are man-made polymers synthesized in laboratories or industries from chemical monomers. Examples include plastics like polyethylene, PVC, and synthetic rubbers.

Analysis of Options:
1. Cellulose: It is a complex carbohydrate (polysaccharide) found in the cell walls of plants. It is composed of thousands of glucose monomer units linked together. Since it is produced naturally by plants, it is a natural polymer.
2. Teflon (PTFE): It is Polytetrafluoroethylene, a synthetic fluoropolymer used for non-stick coatings. It is synthesized from tetrafluoroethylene monomers.
3. Polyvinylchloride (PVC): It is a synthetic plastic polymer produced by the polymerization of vinyl chloride monomers. It is widely used in pipes and construction.
4. Neoprene rubber: Also known as polychloroprene, it is a synthetic rubber produced by the polymerization of chloroprene. It is not found in nature.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Cellulose is the only natural polymer among the choices, as it is a fundamental structural component of plants.