Concept:
Synthetic polymers are large macromolecules formed by the repeated linking of smaller units called monomers. Nylon is a widely used synthetic polymer belonging to the class of polyamides. Different types of nylon are formed depending on the monomers used.
• Nylon-6 is produced from a single monomer called caprolactam.
• Caprolactam undergoes ring-opening polymerization to form long chains of polyamide.
• The repeating unit of Nylon-6 contains an amide linkage (-CONH-) which provides strength and durability.
Other related polymers include:
• Nylon-6,6: formed from hexamethylenediamine and adipic acid.
• Polyesters: formed using compounds like ethylene glycol.
Step 1: Identify the monomer used in Nylon-6 synthesis.
Nylon-6 is produced by the polymerization of caprolactam. The cyclic caprolactam molecule opens and links with other molecules forming a long polyamide chain.
Step 2: Eliminate the other options.
• Adipic acid → Used in Nylon-6,6 synthesis.
• Hexamethylenediamine → Also used in Nylon-6,6 synthesis.
• Ethylene glycol → Used in polyester formation (e.g., PET).
Therefore, the correct monomer for Nylon-6 is Caprolactam.