The correct option is **C. Polyethylene**. ### Detailed Explanation: 1. **Understanding Polymerization**: - Polymerization is the process of combining small molecules called monomers to form a larger molecule known as a polymer. The type of polymer formed depends on the monomers used and the method of polymerization. 2. **Ethylene as a Monomer**: - Ethylene (C₂H₄) is a simple alkene and is the monomer from which polyethylene is derived. It consists of two carbon atoms double-bonded to each other, with each carbon atom also bonded to two hydrogen atoms. 3. **Polyethylene Formation**: - Polyethylene is formed through a process called addition polymerization (or chain-growth polymerization). In this process, the double bond in ethylene is broken, allowing the carbon atoms to bond with other ethylene molecules, creating long chains of repeating units. The general reaction can be represented as: \[ n \, \text{C}_2\text{H}_4 \rightarrow \text{(C}_2\text{H}_4\text{)}_n \] - Here, \( n \) represents the number of ethylene monomers that combine to form the polymer. 4. **Properties of Polyethylene**: - Polyethylene is one of the most widely used synthetic polymers, known for its versatility, low density, and resistance to moisture and chemicals. It is commonly used in packaging, plastic bags, and containers. ### Why the Other Options are Incorrect: - **A. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)**: - PVC is derived from the polymerization of vinyl chloride (C₂H₃Cl), not ethylene. The structure of vinyl chloride includes a chlorine atom, which significantly alters its properties compared to polyethylene. - **B. Polystyrene**: - Polystyrene is produced from the polymerization of styrene (C₈H₈), which is an aromatic compound. Styrene contains a phenyl group (a benzene ring), making it chemically distinct from ethylene. - **D. Nylon**: - Nylon is a synthetic polymer made from the condensation polymerization of diamines and dicarboxylic acids, not from ethylene. It is a type of polyamide and has a completely different structure and properties compared to polyethylene. ### Summary of Key Points: - **Polyethylene** is the polymer derived from the polymerization of ethylene monomers. - Ethylene undergoes addition polymerization to form long chains of polyethylene. - Other options (PVC, polystyrene, and nylon) are derived from different monomers and processes. - Understanding the structure and source of monomers is crucial in identifying the correct polymer. This thorough understanding of polymerization and the specific monomers involved will help you in recognizing and differentiating between various synthetic polymers in your studies.