Question:

Which one of the following is amorphous?

Updated On: Apr 30, 2026
  • Polystyrene
  • Table salt
  • Silica
  • Diamond
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Polystyrene is a synthetic polymer formed by the polymerisation of styrene monomers.

It belongs to the category of thermoplastic polymers, meaning it softens on heating and hardens on cooling without undergoing any chemical change.

Its structure consists of long linear chains with weak intermolecular forces, which allows the chains to slide over each other when heat is applied.

This property makes polystyrene reusable and mouldable multiple times.

Therefore, polystyrene is a thermoplastic polymer.

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Concepts Used:

Polymers of Commercial Importance

  • Polypropene is formed by the repetitive joining of propene. Propene is the monomer of Polypropene. It is used in the preparation of different materials like fibres, ropes, pipes etc.
  • Polystyrene is formed from aromatic hydrocarbons, styrene is its monomer. It is used as a wrapping material to provide coverage to important materials, cabinets of television, in making radios.
  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is formed by combining a large number of molecules of vinyl chloride. Vinyl chloride is its monomer. It is used in making raincoats and especially in water pipes.
  • Glyptal is a synthetic polymer that is formed by monomers of Ethylene glycol and Phthalic acid. It is used in the manufacturing of paints, fabrics, lacquers etc.
  • Bakelite is known as Polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride. Phenol and Formaldehyde are used as monomers to produce bakelite which is formed by the condensation reaction of these monomers.
  • Natural Rubber is composed of polyisoprene molecules linked together to form an elastomeric structure. Natural rubber is used for various purposes like making tyres, rubber bands, lid grippers etc.
  • Polypropylene is a hydrocarbon polymer that has a linear structure. It is a multifaceted polymer as it has properties of plastic as well as fibre and hence is used for multi-purposes. Propylene is the monomer of polypropylene.
  • Polyethylene Terephthalate also termed PET is a thermoplastic polymer. Ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid are used in the preparation of Polyethylene Terephthalate and in making different things like containers for packing food and drinks.
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene also termed PTFE is a fluoropolymer. It is slippery in nature and is highly resistant to heat. The monomer of polytetrafluoroethylene is tetrafluoroethylene.

Neoprene is formed from chloroprene. It is prepared by free radical polymerisation. The monomer of neoprene is chloroprene. It is used for preparing gaskets, conveyor belts etc.