Question

Which of the following are biopolymers?
A.Nucleic acids
B.leather
C.bakelite
D.orlon

Answer 1

Biopolymers are defined as natural polymers produced by the cells of a living organism and often have a well-defined structure. They consist of a monomeric unit that is covalently bonded to form larger molecules.

Complete step by step answer:

If we talk about option A. i.e. nucleic acid, as they are present in the living system they can be defined as a biopolymer. They are also called polynucleotides.
If we talk about option B. i.e. leather which is a durable and flexible material and is created by tanning animal rawhide and skins. As it is also produced from a living system hence it is also considered to be a biopolymer.
In the case of option C. i.e. Bakelite, the monomeric unit is formaldehyde and phenol and is formed by the condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde. So it is not considered a biopolymer. Also, it is the first plastic to be made from a synthetic component.
In the case of option D i.e. orlon. It is also known as polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and is the polymer of acrylonitrile. It is a synthetic fiber used for textiles. Hence it is also not considered as a biopolymer.
Hence the correct answer is option A and B.

Note:
The major defining difference between synthetic polymers and biopolymers can be found in their structure. The synthetic polymers have much simpler and more random structures and this fact leads to a molecular mass distribution that is missing in biopolymers. Also, biopolymers are easily degradable as compared to synthetic polymers.