Answer: PHBV (polyhydroxybutyrate-co-valerate).
- A PHBV (polyhydroxybutyrate-co-valerate)
- B Polyethylene, a stable addition polymer resistant to microbial attack
- C PVC, a chlorinated polymer resistant to enzymatic breakdown
- D Nylon-6,6, a synthetic polyamide resistant to hydrolysis in soil
Correct answer: A. PHBV (polyhydroxybutyrate-co-valerate)
Explanation: PHBV is a biodegradable polymer produced naturally by bacteria, used in packaging and medical devices.
Addition polymerisation simply links monomers containing a double bond with nothing left over, while condensation polymerisation joins two different monomers through a reaction (often forming an ester or amide bond) that releases a small molecule like water at each step.
Concept context
Large molecules made of repeating monomer units. Covers addition and condensation polymerisation, natural and synthetic polymers (nylon, PVC, Bakelite, natural rubber), and their real-world industrial applications.