Question

The first man-made polymer is:
(A) PVC
(B) Teflon
(C) Bakelite
(D) Nylon

Answer 1

Hint: Man-made polymers are synthesized in the laboratory, by simple chemical reactions such as condensation. When monomer units condense, small molecules such as water are the byproducts.

Complete answer:
Bakelite is also called phenol formaldehyde resin. It is obtained by elimination reaction between phenol and formaldehyde.

Bakelite contains cross links, or heavily branched polymer chains. Bakelite polymer, upon heating is hardened and cannot be softened again.
Hence, it is a thermosetting polymer.
A thermosetting polymer, upon heating is hardened and cannot be softened again.
A polymer, which undergoes extensive cross linking upon heating, cannot be melted again and again without any change is a thermosetting polymer.
When bakelite is heated, the degree of cross linking significantly increases. So the polymer mass becomes infusible. It is not possible to get back the original shape after melting. Hence, it cannot be reused.
Hence, the bakelite polymer cannot be melted again and again without any change.
Bakelite has high resistance to that and electricity. Hence, it is used in automotive components. It also has some industrial applications. Bakelite has very good insulating properties. Hence, it is used in making electrical switches. Bakelite is also used in frying pans and other kitchenware products. Also, some toys and jewelry articles are made from bakelite.
Bakelite is phenol formaldehyde resin. Phenol and formaldehyde are polymerized together to obtain Bakelite. The first man-made polymer is Bakelite.

Hence, the correct option is the option (C).

Note: A thermoplastic polymer can be repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling. Hence, thermoplastic polymers can be used again and again. Polythene, polypropylene etc are thermoplastic polymers.