Question

Write the names and structures of the monomers of the following polymers:
(A) Polystyrene
(B) Dacron
(C) Teflon

Answer 1

Hint : A monomer refers to the molecule having the capability to form a chemical bond with other molecules present in a long chain. While, a polymer is a complex molecule which generally refers to a chain of several numbers of monomers. In simpler terms, we can say that monomers refer to the building blocks of polymers.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
Let us discuss in brief each polymer mentioned in the options:
Polystyrene: Polystyrene is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer. It is basically an aromatic hydrocarbon polymer which is synthesized using the monomer styrene via a radical polymerisation method. The reaction involving structure of monomer and polymer is depicted below:

Polystyrene is generally utilised in protective packaging (like packing peanuts), disposable cutlery, containers, bottles, trays, tumblers and in making models.
Dacron: Dacron is also known as Terylene which is a synthetic polymer made from a polyester. It is formed by the condensation polymerization of terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol at 425 – 475 K. It is highly durable and provides thermal comfort and possess moisture-wicking properties. Many textile manufacturers use Dacron fiber in order to produce high-quality products. The reaction involving structure of monomer and polymer is depicted below:

Teflon: Teflon is also known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is a thermoplastic polymer which becomes soft on heating and hard on cooling. It is basically non-reactive, and comprises carbon-fluorine bonds. It is made from tetrafluoroethylene as monomer via free-radical polymerisation as shown below:

Teflon is generally used in non-stick pots, pans, waterproof clothing, microwave popcorn bags, etc.

Note :
Polymers are generally classified into three groups which are natural polymers, synthetic elastomers and synthetic polymers. Natural polymers include proteins, gelatin, waxes, starch, rubber, gum, chitosan, etc. Synthetic elastomers include silicone rubber, nitrile, neoprene and acrylonitrile. Synthetic polymers include polyethylene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyuria, etc.