Question

A synthetic polyamide prepared by prolonged heating of caprolactum is:
A.Nylon 6, 6
B.Nylon 6
C.Nylon 6, 10
D.glyptal

Answer 1

To answer this question we must have the knowledge of polymeric chemistry. Caprolactum is a monomer unit and heated it water to produce a polymer which is used in ropes, tyres etc.

Complete answer:
Nylon 6 is formed by the prolonged heating of caprolactam with water.
Caprolactum is an organic compound and is a cyclic compound contains 6 carbon and one nitrogen in ring. Most of the caprolactam produce is used in the synthesis of Nylon 6. Caprolactam has a ring-like structure, so while converting to nylon 6 its ring-like structure opens up and long polymeric chain forms. It is slightly toxic and causes irritation as well. The molecular formula for caprolactum is ${{\text{C}}_6}{{\text{H}}_{11}}{\text{NH}}$.
Nylon 6 is a semi-crystalline polymer amide and was made by Paul Schlack and IG Farben. Most of the nylon polymer are condensation polymer but nylon 6 is a formed by ring opening polymerization. It is named as nylon 6 because its monomer caprolactam has 6 carbons in it. During polymerization amide bonds break up and chain formation occurs. Nylon 6 fibers are tough and have high tensile strength. They are elastic and lustrous and resistant to acids and bases. They do not absorb water and also dries very quickly.

So, The correct option is B.

Note: Nylon polymers are used extensively in various fields, it is a very useful synthetic polymer. In the clothing industry it is used in production of shirts, raincoat, swimwear, cycle wear etc. It is also used to produce seat belts, airbags, and fishnets and used as plastic too.