The correct option is **C. Polyethylene**. ### Detailed Explanation: 1. **Understanding Ethylene**: - Ethylene is a simple hydrocarbon with the formula C₂H₄. It is a colorless gas that is widely used as a starting material in the production of various chemicals and polymers. 2. **Polymerization Process**: - The process of creating a polymer from monomers (like ethylene) is called polymerization. In the case of polyethylene, ethylene molecules undergo a process called addition polymerization. This involves the breaking of the double bond in ethylene, allowing the individual monomers to link together to form long chains of polyethylene. 3. **Properties of Polyethylene**: - Polyethylene is known for its versatility, durability, and resistance to moisture. It can be produced in different densities (low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)), which affects its properties and applications. 4. **Common Uses**: - Polyethylene is widely used in the production of plastic bags, containers, bottles, and various packaging materials due to its lightweight and strong nature. Its ability to be molded into different shapes makes it ideal for a variety of applications. ### Why the Other Options Are Incorrect: - **A. Polystyrene**: - Polystyrene is derived from the polymerization of styrene, not ethylene. Styrene is a different compound with the formula C₈H₈. While polystyrene is used in products like foam cups and insulation, it is not the correct answer for this question. - **B. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)**: - PVC is produced from the polymerization of vinyl chloride, which is a different monomer (C₂H₃Cl). PVC is commonly used in pipes, vinyl siding, and flooring, but it does not come from ethylene. - **D. Polypropylene**: - Polypropylene is made from the polymerization of propylene (C₃H₆), which is another type of hydrocarbon. While polypropylene is used in a variety of applications, including packaging and textiles, it is not derived from ethylene. ### Summary of Key Points: - **Polyethylene** is the polymer derived from the polymerization of **ethylene** (C₂H₄). - It is widely used in the production of **plastic bags** and **containers** due to its favorable properties. - Other options (polystyrene, PVC, and polypropylene) are derived from different monomers and are used for different applications. - Understanding the source of synthetic polymers is crucial for identifying their uses and properties in chemistry.