The monomer used to produce orlon is:

A. CH2=CHF

B. CH2CCl2

C. CH2=CHCl

D. CH2=CH-CN

To determine the correct monomer used to produce orlon, we need to look at the chemical structure of orlon itself. Orlon is a type of acrylic fiber, and its primary monomer is acrylonitrile. The chemical formula for acrylonitrile is CH2=CH-CN. Therefore, the correct answer to your question is D. CH2=CH-CN.

Understanding Orlon and Its Production

Orlon is a synthetic fiber that belongs to the family of acrylic fibers. It is known for its warmth, softness, and resistance to wrinkles and moths. The production of orlon involves polymerizing acrylonitrile, which is a compound that contains a vinyl group (CH2=CH-) and a nitrile group (CN).

The Role of Monomers in Polymerization

In the context of polymer chemistry, a monomer is a small molecule that can join together with other monomers to form a polymer. The process of polymerization can occur through various mechanisms, such as addition polymerization or condensation polymerization. For orlon, the addition polymerization of acrylonitrile leads to the formation of long chains of polyacrylonitrile, which is the actual polymer that makes up the fiber.

Analyzing the Options

• A. CH2=CHF: This compound is vinyl fluoride, which is not related to orlon.
• B. CH2CCl2: This is vinylidene chloride, used in other types of polymers but not in orlon production.
• C. CH2=CHCl: This is vinyl chloride, which is used to make PVC (polyvinyl chloride), not orlon.
• D. CH2=CH-CN: This is acrylonitrile, the correct monomer for orlon.

Why Acrylonitrile?

Acrylonitrile is favored in the production of orlon due to its properties that contribute to the fiber's characteristics. The nitrile group in acrylonitrile enhances the fiber's strength and durability, while the vinyl group allows for the polymerization process to occur efficiently. This combination results in a fiber that is not only strong but also has good dye affinity, making it versatile for various textile applications.

Applications of Orlon

Orlon is commonly used in clothing, upholstery, and various household textiles. Its ability to mimic the feel of wool while being more resistant to fading and moth damage makes it a popular choice in the fashion industry. Additionally, orlon can be blended with other fibers to enhance the overall performance of the fabric.

In summary, the monomer used to produce orlon is acrylonitrile, represented by the chemical structure CH2=CH-CN. This understanding not only clarifies the question but also highlights the significance of monomers in the creation of synthetic fibers.