Question

Which is an example of a thermosetting polymer?
A.Polythene
B.PVC
C.Neoprene
D.Bakelite

Answer 1

Hint: The polymers which become harder on heating are the thermosetting polymers. A thermosetting polymer is also known as a resin, thermoset or a polymer. These polymers are irreversibly hardened.

Complete step by step answer:
The materials made up of long and repeating chains are known as polymers. The process used to manufacture polymers is known as polymerization. When these polymers behave as plastics they fit into one of the two categories i.e. thermosetting or thermoplastic polymers.
So in this problem we have to identify the thermosetting polymer, which is also a plastic.
The first option given to us is Polythene. It comes under the category of plastic but it is not a thermosetting polymer because it is not hard and tough.
The second option is PVC, it comes under the category of thermoplastic as it can be moulded and recycled.
The third option is Neoprene, it is basically rubber. It is used in the sealing of electrical appliances and due to its high tensile strength it has industrial uses also.
And the last one, fourth option is Bakelite, it is a thermosetting polymer. It becomes harder and harder on heating. It has high resistivity towards heat and electricity so it is used in coating of wire, making handles of utensils and also used in industries.
Hence option (D) is correct, Bakelite.


Note:
Thermosetting polymers or thermoset plastics have a great use in our daily life. Thermoset plastics include construction equipment, insulators, shields, agricultural equipment etc. and thus plays an important role in our daily life.