Regarding cross-linked or network polymers, which of the following statements is incorrect?
- AExamples are bakelite and melamine
- BThey are formed from bi- and tri-functional monomers
- CThey contain covalent bonds between various linear polymer chains
- DThey contain strong covalent bonds in their polymer chains
Solution & Step-by-step Explanation
While statements A, B, and C are correct descriptions of cross-linked polymers (they use multifunctional monomers to create a 3D network with covalent bridges between chains), statement D is poorly phrased as a distinguishing feature. However, looking at standard chemistry contexts, cross-linked polymers contain covalent bonds between various linear polymer chains, which is their defining characteristic. The "incorrect" statement often targeted in exams is that they contain weak bonds, but here, the logic focuses on the fact that they are formed from bifunctional and trifunctional monomers.Wait, re-evaluating the provided solution: The statement "They contain strong covalent bonds in their polymer chains" is general to all polymers. The most specific "incorrect" point usually refers to the monomer functionality or the nature of the link. Based on standard 2018 keys, option D is the intended answer because it doesn't specifically describe the cross-linking nature.