Question

Which among the following is a biodegradable polymer?

• A. PVC
• B. Freon
• C. Nylon
• D. PHBV

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question asks which among the given options is a biodegradable polymer. To determine this, we need to understand what a biodegradable polymer is:

• A biodegradable polymer is a polymer that can be decomposed by natural biological processes. These types of polymers break down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass under the action of microorganisms.

Let's analyze each option:

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): This is a synthetic polymer that is not biodegradable. It is used in applications like pipes and cables and does not decompose easily.
• Freon: This is a trade name for a group of chemical compounds used as refrigerants. They are not polymers and are not biodegradable.
• Nylon: A synthetic polymer used in fabrics and textiles. It is not biodegradable because it is resistant to biological breakdown.
• PHBV (Polyhydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate): This is a biodegradable polyester. It is produced by certain bacteria and decomposes in the presence of microorganisms.

From this analysis, PHBV is the correct answer as it is the only biodegradable polymer among the options listed.

Answer 2

PHBV (Polyhydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) is a biodegradable polymer. It is a type of biopolymer that is made from renewable resources and can be broken down by microorganisms in the environment, making it environmentally friendly.

• PVC (Polyvinyl chloride): This is a non-biodegradable polymer that does not break down easily in the environment.
• Freon: This is a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), not a polymer, and it is not biodegradable.
• Nylon: This is also a non-biodegradable polymer and does not decompose easily in the environment.

Thus, the only biodegradable polymer in the options is PHBV (Option D).