Question

What are ‘X’ and 'Y' respectively in the following reactions? 

• A.

  

• B.

  

• C.

  

• D.

  

Hint:

Terephthalic acid derivatives are used in polymer production for safety equipment and paints. The reaction with ethylene glycol forms polyester, an important industrial polymer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Identifying the Reaction Pathway 
1. The given transformation involves polymerization reactions:
- The first step converts a polymer used in making safety helmets into ethylene glycol (\( HO-CH_2-CH_2-OH \)).
- The second step converts ethylene glycol into a polymer used in paint manufacturing.
2. Identifying the polymers:
- The polymer used in safety helmets is polycarbonate or poly(terephthalic acid-co-bisphenol A).
- The polymer used in paint manufacturing is polyester, commonly synthesized from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol.
Step 2: Determining X and Y 
- Y (Reactant for first step): Terephthalic acid derivative leading to ethylene glycol formation.
- X (Reactant for second step): Terephthalic acid, which reacts with ethylene glycol to form polyester.
Step 3: Evaluating the Given Options 
- Option (1): Correct, as it correctly identifies the structure of terephthalic acid derivatives leading to polymer formation.
- Option (2): Incorrect, as it swaps the structures incorrectly.
- Option (3): Incorrect, as it does not correctly represent the intermediate.
- Option (4): Incorrect, as it provides incorrect reactants.
Thus, the correct answer is 

Option (1).