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Chapter 11: Problem 40

Monomer units in natural rubber are isoprene units.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The primary monomer unit in natural rubber is isoprene. The dominating cis-configuration of isoprene units in natural rubber allows it to possess its unique elastic properties.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction to Natural Rubber

Natural rubber is a polymer that is obtained from the sap of rubber trees. The sap, also known as latex, is collected and processed to form the rubber material used in various products like tires, gloves, and many other applications. The primary monomer unit that makes up natural rubber is isoprene units.
02

Isoprene Monomer Structure

Isoprene (C5H8) is an unsaturated hydrocarbon having the chemical formula \(\mathrm{CH_2=C(CH_3)CH=CH_2}\). It consists of five carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. The structure of isoprene allows it to form long chains through polymerization, resulting in the formation of the natural rubber.
03

Polymerization of Isoprene

During the polymerization process, the double bonds between the carbon atoms in isoprene react with each other to join the isoprene units and form a longer chain. This chain of connected isoprene units is referred to as polyisoprene, the primary component of natural rubber.
04

Cis and Trans Configuration in Polyisoprene

Polyisoprene can have two configurations: cis and trans. Natural rubber, also known as cis-1,4-polyisoprene, predominantly has the cis configuration. This means that the hydrogen atoms on the carbon atoms involved in the double bond are on the same side. The cis-configuration gives natural rubber its elastic properties, making it invaluable for many applications. In conclusion, natural rubber is primarily composed of monomer units called isoprene, which are linked together through a polymerization process to form the polyisoprene chain. The dominating cis-configuration of the isoprene units in natural rubber allows it to possess its unique elastic properties.

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