Question

Which of the following polymers is a copolymer: Buna-S, Polythene, or PVC?

• A. Polythene
• B. PVC
• C. Buna-S
• D. All of these

Hint:

A copolymer is formed from two different monomers. Examples: Buna-S (butadiene + styrene) and Buna-N (butadiene + acrylonitrile).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify a copolymer from the given list of polymers. A copolymer is a polymer derived from two or more different species of monomers. A homopolymer is derived from a single species of monomer.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze each polymer:
Polythene (or Polyethylene): This polymer is formed by the polymerization of a single monomer, ethene (\(CH_2=CH_2\)). Therefore, it is a homopolymer.

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride): This polymer is formed by the polymerization of a single monomer, vinyl chloride (\(CH_2=CHCl\)). Therefore, it is a homopolymer.

Buna-S: This is a synthetic rubber formed by the copolymerization of two different monomers: 1,3-butadiene (\(CH_2=CH-CH=CH_2\)) and styrene (\(C_6H_5CH=CH_2\)). The name itself gives a clue: Bu stands for butadiene, na for the sodium catalyst, and S for styrene. Since it is formed from two different monomers, it is a copolymer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Among the given options, Buna-S is a copolymer.