Chemistry - Polymer Question with Solution | TestHub
The utility of polymers in various fields is due to their mechanical properties like tensile strength, elasticity, toughness, etc. These properties mainly depend upon intermolecular forces like van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding operating in polymer molecules. Polymers have been classified on this basis as e.g.
(i) Elastomers
(ii) Fibres
(iii) Thermoplastics
(iv) Thermosetting
Which of the following is hard?
Options:
Answer:
Solution:
Question Explanation:
The question asks to identify which of the given polymer types is the hardest.
Concept:
This question is based on polymer properties.
Solution:
The hardness of a polymer is directly related to the strength of the forces holding its polymer chains together. Thermosetting polymers are formed by a process that creates a rigid, three-dimensional network of covalent bonds (cross-links). This extensive cross-linking makes them very strong, rigid, and hard, and they do not soften upon heating.
In contrast, elastomers have very weak intermolecular forces, giving them their elastic properties. Thermoplastics have intermediate forces, and fibers have strong intermolecular forces but lack the extensive 3D cross-linking of thermosets, making them strong and tough but not as rigid and hard as thermosets.
Final Answer: The correct option is (D).