Question

Polymers are classified based on their:

• A. Melting points
• B. Ability to conduct electricity
• C. Molecular structure and synthesis process
• D. Color and texture

Hint:

Polymers differ in how their chains are built and connected — that's why classification is based on structure and synthesis, not looks or melting points!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Polymers are long-chain molecules made up of repeating units called monomers. Due to the wide variety in how these chains are built and processed, polymers are classified mainly based on their molecular structure and the synthesis process used to create them.
Key Classifications of Polymers:

• Based on Molecular Structure:
  • Linear polymers: Chains are arranged in a straight line (e.g., high-density polyethylene).
  • Branched polymers: Chains have side branches (e.g., low-density polyethylene).
  • Cross-linked or network polymers: Chains are interconnected (e.g., Bakelite).
• Based on Synthesis:
  • Addition polymerization: Monomers join without loss of atoms (e.g., polystyrene).
  • Condensation polymerization: Monomers join with the elimination of small molecules like water (e.g., nylon).

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

• (A) Melting points: May vary with structure but are not the basis for fundamental classification.
• (B) Ability to conduct electricity: Most polymers are insulators; conductivity is not a general property used for classification.
• (D) Color and texture: These are physical appearances, not structural or chemical criteria.

Hence, polymers are primarily classified by their molecular structure and how they are synthesized.