Question

Consider the following statements regarding Nylon 6 production from caprolactam using water as a catalyst.
[(P)] The first reaction involving ring-opening of caprolactam with water is an endothermic reaction.
[(Q)] Increase in water concentration during the polycondensation results in a higher molecular weight polymer
[(R)] The polycondensation is an irreversible reaction
[(S)] Increase in temperature during the polycondensation results in a lower molecular weight polymer.
The correct combination of TRUE statements is

• A. P and Q
• B. Q and R
• C. R and S
• D. S and P

Hint:

- Endothermic reactions require energy to proceed, such as the ring-opening reaction of caprolactam.
- Polycondensation reactions are irreversible and lead to higher molecular weight polymers with lower temperatures and higher water concentrations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

- Statement (P): The first reaction involving ring-opening of caprolactam with water is indeed an endothermic reaction because energy is required to break the ring structure.
- Statement (Q): Increasing water concentration during the polycondensation typically results in a higher molecular weight polymer, as water is used in the reaction for polymer chain elongation.
- Statement (R): The polycondensation reaction is irreversible as it results in the formation of a high molecular weight product, and the polymerization process cannot be reversed easily
- Statement (S): Increasing temperature during the polycondensation results in a lower molecular weight polymer because higher temperatures can cause the polymer chains to break down or not form properly.
Thus, the correct answers are (A) and (B).