Concept Explanation: Monomer for Orlon

Orlon is a synthetic polymer, specifically an acrylic fiber. It is known for its wool-like feel and is used in textiles. The polymer is polyacrylonitrile (PAN), which is formed from the monomer acrylonitrile.

Step 1: Identify the Polymer

Orlon is a trade name for polyacrylonitrile. The repeating unit in polyacrylonitrile is derived from acrylonitrile monomer.

Step 2: Structure of Acrylonitrile

Acrylonitrile has the chemical formula: ${CH}_{2} = CH - CN$ . In standard notation, it is written as CH₂=CH-CN, which is equivalent to CH₂=CHCN.

Step 3: Compare with Options

Review the given options:

CH₂=CHF: Vinyl fluoride (used for polyvinyl fluoride)
CH₂=CHCN: Acrylonitrile (correct for Orlon)
CH₂=CCl₂: Vinylidene chloride (used for saran)
CH₂=CH–Cl: Vinyl chloride (used for PVC)

Step 4: Polymerization Process

Acrylonitrile undergoes addition polymerization to form polyacrylonitrile:

$n {CH}_{2} = CH - CN \to [- {CH}_{2} - CH (CN) -] n$

Final Answer

The monomer used to prepare Orlon is CH₂=CHCN (acrylonitrile).

Related Topics

Addition Polymerization: A process where monomers add together without the loss of any small molecules, common in vinyl polymers.
Acrylic Polymers: Polymers derived from acrylate and methacrylate esters, or acrylonitrile.
Synthetic Fibers: Man-made fibers like nylon, polyester, and acrylics (e.g., Orlon).

Key Formulae and Theory

General Polymerization Reaction:

$n Monomer \to Polymer$

Structure of Acrylonitrile: CH₂=CH-CN

Polyacrylonitrile Repeating Unit: -[CH₂-CH(CN)]_n-

Note: Acrylonitrile is a vinyl monomer with a nitrile group (-CN), which influences the properties of the polymer, making it resistant to chemicals and sunlight.