Question

Which of the following statements about low density polythene is FALSE?
A: It is a poor conductor of electricity
B: Its synthesis requires dioxygen or a peroxide initiator as a catalyst
C: It is used in the manufacture of buckets, dust-bins etc.
D: Its synthesis requires high pressure

Answer 1

Low-density polyethene (LDPE) is actually a thermoplastic polymer that is made from the monomer ethylene or ethene. It is a semi-rigid as well as translucent polymer. In comparison to high density polythene (HDPE), it possesses a high degree of short as well as long side-chain branching.

Complete Step by step answer:
LDPE is a bad conductor of electricity and is chemically inert. It is synthesized through the polymerization reaction of ethane under the influence of high pressure (1000-2000 atm) and temperature (350-570 K) in the presence of catalyst i.e. dioxygen or peroxide initiator. The synthesis of LDPE is an exothermic process. It is used in the manufacturing of flexible pipes, squeeze bottles and toys. While, HDPE is used in the manufacturing of buckets, dust-bins etc.
Now it is clear that all the given statements in options are true except Option C.

Thus, the correct answer is Option C.

Note: The polymer chains in case of LDPE are highly branched in comparison to HDPE. While, polymer chains in case of HDPE are more linear. These chains in HDPE are closely packed together which thereby results in greater intermolecular forces as well as a more crystalline structure. As a result, HDPE possesses greater tensile strength compared to LDPE.