The correct option is **C. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)**. ### Detailed Explanation: 1. **Understanding Vinyl Chloride**: - Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas that is used as a monomer in the production of various polymers. Its chemical formula is C₂H₃Cl, which indicates that it contains two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and one chlorine atom. 2. **Polymerization Process**: - The process of creating a polymer from monomers is called polymerization. In the case of vinyl chloride, the polymerization occurs through a process known as free radical polymerization. This involves the initiation of a reaction that allows the vinyl chloride monomers to link together to form long chains, resulting in the polymer known as polyvinyl chloride (PVC). 3. **Formation of PVC**: - During the polymerization of vinyl chloride, the double bond between the carbon atoms in the vinyl group (C=C) opens up, allowing the monomers to connect. The reaction can be summarized as follows: \[ n \, \text{C}_2\text{H}_3\text{Cl} \rightarrow \text{(C}_2\text{H}_3\text{Cl)}_n \] - Here, \( n \) represents the number of vinyl chloride units that combine to form the polymer chain. 4. **Properties of PVC**: - PVC is a versatile plastic that is widely used in construction, plumbing, electrical cable insulation, and many other applications due to its durability, resistance to environmental degradation, and low cost. ### Why the Other Options are Incorrect: - **A. Polystyrene**: - Polystyrene is derived from the polymerization of styrene, which has the formula C₈H₈. Styrene is a different monomer that does not contain chlorine and is not related to vinyl chloride. Therefore, this option is incorrect. - **B. Polyethylene**: - Polyethylene is produced from the polymerization of ethylene (C₂H₄), which is another distinct monomer. Like polystyrene, polyethylene does not involve vinyl chloride in its synthesis, making this option incorrect. - **D. Polylactic acid (PLA)**: - Polylactic acid is a biodegradable polymer made from lactic acid, which is derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is not related to vinyl chloride and is synthesized through a different process (ring-opening polymerization of lactide). Thus, this option is also incorrect. ### Summary of Key Points: - **Correct Answer**: C. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is derived from the polymerization of vinyl chloride. - **Polymerization Process**: Vinyl chloride undergoes free radical polymerization to form long chains of PVC. - **Properties of PVC**: PVC is widely used due to its durability and resistance to environmental factors. - **Incorrect Options**: A (Polystyrene), B (Polyethylene), and D (Polylactic acid) are derived from different monomers and processes, making them incorrect choices. This thorough understanding of the polymerization of vinyl chloride and the properties of PVC will help you in your revision and preparation for your chemistry exam.