Question

What are the monomers of Bakelite?

• A. Phenol and urea
• B. Phenol and formaldehyde
• C. Urea and formaldehyde
• D. Phenol and acetaldehyde

Hint:

Remember that thermosetting plastics like Bakelite are formed from condensation reactions and are not recyclable due to their strong cross-linked structure.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Bakelite is a thermosetting polymer and one of the first synthetic plastics. It is synthesized through a condensation reaction between the following monomers: Phenol (\( \mathrm{C_6H_5OH} \)), and Formaldehyde (\( \mathrm{HCHO} \)). The reaction involves the formation of a phenol-formaldehyde network, resulting in a hard, durable polymer known as Bakelite. Key Points: Bakelite is widely used in electrical insulators and household items due to its high mechanical strength and heat resistance. Phenol and formaldehyde undergo a condensation reaction to form a polymer with cross-linked structures. Thus, the monomers of Bakelite are Phenol and Formaldehyde.