Answer: They contain ester linkages in the backbone that can be hydrolysed by water and enzymes present in body tissue.
- A They are built from monomers with much higher molecular mass than polyethylene, which slows their breakdown instead
- B They are cross-linked thermosetting polymers, a structural feature that usually resists chemical breakdown
- C They contain mainly carbon-carbon single bonds, similar to the bonds found throughout polyethylene chains
- D They contain ester linkages in the backbone that can be hydrolysed by water and enzymes present in body tissue
Correct answer: D. They contain ester linkages in the backbone that can be hydrolysed by water and enzymes present in body tissue
Explanation: Biodegradable polymers like PHBV have hydrolysable ester bonds in the main chain, so water and tissue enzymes can cleave them over time; polyethylene's all-carbon backbone resists such hydrolysis.
The hydrophobic hydrocarbon tail of each soap/detergent molecule dissolves into an oily dirt droplet, while the hydrophilic (ionic) head stays in the surrounding water - trapping the grease inside a micelle that rinses away with water.
Concept context
Drugs and how they interact with biological targets, chemicals in food, and cleansing agents (soaps and detergents) - chemistry applied directly to daily life and healthcare.