Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nylon 6 is a synthetic polymer used in fibers and engineering plastics. It is a homopolymer, meaning it is made from the polymerization of a single type of monomer through a ring-opening mechanism.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Caprolactam: This cyclic organic compound contains 6 carbon atoms. When heated with water, the ring opens and polymerizes to form long chains of Nylon 6.
2. Adipic acid: This is a co-monomer used for Nylon 6,6, not Nylon 6.
3. Ethylene glycol: This is a monomer for polyesters like Dacron (Terylene).
4. Vinyl chloride: This is the monomer for PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
Step 3: Final Answer
The monomer of Nylon 6 is Caprolactam.