Question

Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) is a copolymer of ethylene and a small fraction of \(\underline{\hspace{2cm}}\).

• A. butadiene
• B. isoprene
• C. butene
• D. hexadiene

Hint:

For LLDPE production, butene is the most commonly used co-monomer with ethylene.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) is a type of polyethylene where ethylene is copolymerized with a small fraction of other monomers. The most common monomer used in copolymerization with ethylene for LLDPE is butene, which helps to create a more flexible structure compared to high-density polyethylene.

Step 1: Understand the copolymerization process.
LLDPE is made by copolymerizing ethylene with another monomer, which contributes to altering the polymer's physical properties. The choice of co-monomer can affect factors like flexibility, density, and crystallinity.

Step 2: Analyze the options.
- (A) butadiene: butadiene is commonly used in the production of synthetic rubber, not in LLDPE.
- (B) isoprene: isoprene is used in rubber production but not typically for LLDPE.
- (C) butene: butene is the correct co-monomer used in LLDPE. It imparts the desired low-density structure.
- (D) hexadiene: hexadiene is not typically used in LLDPE production.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct co-monomer for LLDPE is butene, which is commonly used in its production to improve its properties.

Final Answer: \text{(C) butene}