Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Longer chains can better accommodate stress and return to their original shape.
B
Higher molecular weight leads to increased brittleness.
C
Shorter chains are more effective at absorbing energy.
D
Increased polymerization results in a more rigid structure.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
A polymer with a higher degree of polymerization has longer chains, which gives the material more segments that can stretch and then recoil, creating a stronger elastic response. These longer chains can form more entanglements and cross‑links, so when the polymer is pulled it stores elastic energy in the chain network and releases it when the force is removed. The greater the chain length, the more ways the polymer can return to its original shape, giving a larger restoring force. For example, a rubber band made from a very long polymer chain returns to its shape much more quickly than a short‑chain plastic strip, showing higher elasticity.
Detailed Explanation
A longer chain can stretch more because it has many linked units that can slide past each other. Other options are incorrect because The idea that heavier chains make a polymer harder and snap rather than bend is a common mistake; Shorter chains do not absorb more energy; they break sooner.
Key Concepts
Polymer Chain Length and Degree of Polymerization
Topic
Polymerization Reactions
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1How does the degree of polymerization influence the properties of a thermoplastic compared to a thermosetting polymer?
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Question 2In the process of condensation polymerization, how does an increase in the degree of polymerization typically affect the mechanical strength of the resulting polymer?
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3
Question 3What is the primary reason that polymers can exhibit such a wide variety of physical properties?
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