Question

Bakelite is formed by:
(A) polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde
(B) polymerization of alcohol and acetaldehyde
(C) condensation of phenol and formaldehyde
(D) condensation of phenol and acetaldehyde

Answer 1

Hint: It is a poly oxy benzyl methylene glycol anhydride. It is a polymer of two compounds prepared in the presence of either acidic or basic catalysts. It is formed by condensation of two organic compounds.

Complete step by step answer:
Bakelite was the first plastic made from synthetic components. It is a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin. Like many modern plastics, Bakelite was lightweight and durable, and it could be molded into nearly infinite shapes, so its use quickly expanded as manufacturers realized its potential. Consumers primarily were attracted to its aesthetic qualities: a sleek, stylish look coupled with a substantial, high-end feel. People brought Bakelite jewelry boxes, lamps, desk sets, clocks, radios, telephones, kitchenware, tableware, and a variety of game pieces such as chess sets, billiard balls and poker chips.
Bakelite is formed from condensation of phenol and formaldehyde. When phenol is taken in excess and the reaction medium is made acidic. Whereas, when the quantity of formaldehyde taken is more than that of phenol in the reaction mixture, and the reaction occurs in a basic medium,And reaction is highly exothermic, the condensation product is not known as Resol.

So, the correct answer is “Option C”.

Note: Bakelite ushered in a new era of attractive, affordable, convenient consumer goods, making it possible for a broad range of consumers to enjoy products that previously had been inaccessible.