Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nylon 6 is a polyamide formed by the ring-opening polymerization of a single monomer. Unlike Nylon 6,6, which is made from two different monomers, Nylon 6 derives its name from the six carbon atoms present in its repeating unit.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Caprolactam: This is a cyclic monomer with six carbon atoms. When heated with water at high temperatures, the ring opens to form aminocaproic acid, which then polymerizes to form Nylon 6.
2. Adipic acid and Hexamethylenediamine: These are the two monomers used to produce Nylon 6,6.
3. Ethylene glycol: This is used in the production of polyesters like Terylene (Dacron).
Step 3: Final Answer
The monomer for Nylon 6 is Caprolactam.