Question

Which of the following is a thermosetting polymer?
(A) Nylon
(B) Sealing wax
(C) Polysiloxanes
(D) Both B and C.

Answer 1

Hint: In order to find which of the given compounds is a thermosetting polymer, we must first have an idea about what a thermosetting polymer is. The thermosetting polymer is a polymer that consists of a long-chain molecule that is cross-linked.

Complete step by step answer:
First, we have to understand the thermosetting polymer. The thermosetting polymer is a polymer that consists of a long-chain molecule that is cross-linked. Thermosetting polymers are those polymers that get hardened once they are heated. This hardening of the polymer is an irreversible reaction.
Let us see the different properties of the thermosetting polymer.
- The thermosetting polymer will be hardened during the molding process and once they are solidified, it cannot be softened back.
- After being solidified this polymer will obtain a strong three-dimensional structure along with a strong covalent bond. This will help them to retain the structure and strength even when they are exposed to high temperatures.
- They are brittle and tend to char. They will burn when applied heat in a prolonged state.
- They are insoluble in organic solvents.
Let us see different examples of Thermosetting polymers.
- Vulcanized rubber
- Bakelite
- Polyurethane
- Epoxy resin
- Vinyl ester resin
- Polysiloxanes
Now let us move to the given question.
- Nylon and sealing wax will come under a thermoplastic polymer.
- Polysiloxanes will come under a thermosetting polymer.
So, the correct answer is “Option C”.

Note: Remember that the thermosetting polymer and thermoplastic polymer are different from one another. Let us see the difference between the thermosetting and thermoplastic polymer.

THERMOSETTING POLYMER	THERMOPLASTIC POLYMER
- Thermosetting polymers can be synthesized by condensation polymerization.	- Thermoplastic can be synthesized by the addition polymerization.
- They are high in molecular weight.	- They are low in molecular weight.
- They have a high melting point and low tensile strength.	- They have a high melting point and low tensile strength.