Question:

In the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from ethylene and chlorine, the sequential order of reactions is

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This two-step process is fundamental in the PVC production industry, with each step carefully controlled to maximize yield and minimize by-products.
Updated On: Apr 11, 2025
  • Chlorination followed by Dehydrochlorination
  • Dehydrochlorination followed by Chlorination
  • Hydrogenation followed by Chlorination
  • Dehydrochlorination followed by Hydrogenation
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The process for manufacturing PVC involves two primary chemical reactions. Initially, ethylene (\(C_2H_4\)) is chlorinated to form 1,2-dichloroethane (\(C_2H_4Cl_2\)), commonly known as ethylene dichloride (EDC). This reaction is the chlorination step. Subsequently, the EDC undergoes a dehydrochlorination process to produce vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), the precursor for PVC polymerization. 
Step 1: Chlorination of Ethylene: Ethylene reacts with chlorine gas, forming EDC. \[ C_2H_4 + Cl_2 \rightarrow C_2H_4Cl_2 \] 
Step 2: Dehydrochlorination of EDC: EDC is heated and decomposed to yield VCM and hydrogen chloride. \[ C_2H_4Cl_2 \rightarrow CH_2=CHCl + HCl \]

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