The highest intermolecular force of attraction is found in which of the following polymers ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 2, Nylon 6, is the correct answer because it exhibits the highest intermolecular force of attraction among the given polymers. This is primarily due to the presence of hydrogen bonding in its structure. Nylon 6 is a type of polyamide, and its polymer chains contain amide groups (-CONH-) that can form strong hydrogen bonds with each other. These hydrogen bonds significantly enhance the intermolecular forces, leading to higher tensile strength, melting point, and overall durability compared to other polymers listed.

Now, let's examine why the other options are incorrect:

1. **PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):** PVC is a polymer made from the polymerization of vinyl chloride monomers. The primary intermolecular forces in PVC are van der Waals forces, which are weaker than hydrogen bonds. PVC does not have functional groups capable of forming hydrogen bonds, resulting in lower intermolecular forces compared to Nylon 6.

3. **Buna S (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber):** Buna S is a synthetic rubber composed of styrene and butadiene. The intermolecular forces in Buna S are primarily van der Waals forces, similar to PVC. The absence of polar functional groups means it cannot form hydrogen bonds, making its intermolecular forces weaker than those in Nylon 6.

4. **Neoprene (Polychloroprene):** Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber made from chloroprene. Like PVC and Buna S, Neoprene's intermolecular forces are mainly van der Waals forces. Although it has some degree of polarity due to the presence of chlorine atoms, it still lacks the ability to form hydrogen bonds, resulting in weaker intermolecular forces compared to Nylon 6.

In conclusion, Nylon 6 stands out among the options due to its ability to form strong hydrogen bonds, which significantly enhance its intermolecular forces, making it the correct answer.