Which of the following statements about natural rubber is correct?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) It is a natural polymer and has elastic properties.

Explanation: (Information about the correct answer):

• Natural rubber is a natural polymer derived from the milky sap (latex) of various plants, most notably the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis).

• It is chemically known as cis-1,4-polyisoprene, which is formed by the polymerization of the monomer isoprene.

• It possesses unique elastic properties, meaning it can return to its original shape after being stretched or deformed.

• The polymer chains are held together by weak intermolecular (van der Waals) forces and have a coiled structure, which allows them to stretch like a spring.

• In its raw state, it is used to manufacture products like gloves, adhesives, and balloons, though it is often vulcanized to improve durability.

Information Booster: (additional info around the correct answer):

• Vulcanization is a process developed by Charles Goodyear that involves heating natural rubber with sulfur to create cross-links between polymer chains, making it stronger and less sticky.

• Natural rubber is highly soluble in non-polar solvents like ether and carbon tetrachloride but is resistant to water.

Additional Knowledge: (Information about incorrect options):It is an artificial polymer and has elastic properties. (Option b)

• This describes Synthetic Rubber, such as Neoprene or Buna-S.

• Synthetic rubbers are man-made through the polymerization of petroleum-based monomers.

It is not a polymer, but it has elastic properties. (Option c)

• This is scientifically incorrect. The very definition of rubber (an elastomer) requires it to be a polymer with long, flexible chains.

• Without the polymer structure, the material would not have the necessary "memory" to snap back after stretching.

It is a natural polymer but does not have elastic properties. (Option d)

• While natural rubber is a natural polymer, its defining physical characteristic is its elasticity.

• Polymers without elastic properties are generally classified as plastics or fibers (like cellulose).