Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Flexible Structure
B
Brittle Structure
C
Porous Structure
D
Amorphous Structure
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
High‑density polyethylene (HDPE) has a highly ordered, crystalline chain arrangement that gives it a rigid, stiff structure. Low‑density polyethylene (LDPE) contains many kinks and branches, making its chains less ordered and its structure flexible and amorphous. The analogy compares the degree of chain order and resulting mechanical property: HDPE is to LDPE as a rigid structure is to a flexible structure. In other words, the counterpart to a rigid structure in this analogy is a flexible structure. This illustrates how branching and crystallinity control a polymer’s stiffness or pliability.
Detailed Explanation
LDPE has many short branches along its chain. Other options are incorrect because A common mistake is to think the branched structure makes the material hard; Some people think LDPE is porous, full of tiny holes.
Key Concepts
Polymer Morphology
Polymer Properties
Polymer Structure
Topic
Polymer Morphology
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1Polymer morphology significantly influences the properties of polymers like polyethylene. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is characterized by its __________ structure, which contributes to its strength and rigidity compared to low-density polyethylene (LDPE).
easyChemistry
Practice
2
Question 2Classify the following types of polyethylene based on their branching structure: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), and Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE). Which category best describes HDPE?
easyChemistry
Practice
3
Question 3Why does high-density polyethylene (HDPE) exhibit greater strength compared to low-density polyethylene (LDPE)?
hardChemistry
Practice
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