Question

Which of the following is a thermoplastic?

• A. Bakelite
• B. Polycarbonate
• C. Ebonite
• D. Vulcanized

Hint:

Thermoplastics can be recycled easily because they soften on heating.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding thermoplastics.
Thermoplastics are polymers that soften when heated and harden upon cooling. This process is reversible, allowing thermoplastics to be reshaped multiple times without chemical change.
Step 2: Classification of given materials.
Bakelite, ebonite, and vulcanized rubber are thermosetting polymers. Once set, they cannot be reshaped on heating due to extensive cross-linking. Polycarbonate, however, is a linear polymer with little cross-linking.
Step 3: Analysis of options.
(A) Bakelite: A thermosetting plastic, not thermoplastic.
(B) Polycarbonate: Correct — It softens on heating and can be reshaped.
(C) Ebonite: A hard form of vulcanized rubber, thermosetting in nature.
(D) Vulcanized: Vulcanized rubber is thermosetting.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic polymer, hence option (B) is correct.