Final answer:
Transparent disposable drinking and coffee cups are commonly made from polystyrene, which offers the necessary clarity for such products.
Step-by-step explanation:
The plastic material used to make transparent "throw-away" drinking cups and disposable coffee cups is typically polystyrene. Polystyrene is a type of polymer known for its clarity and is often used in products like foam packing, plastic cutlery, and foam containers for food and drinks. Polyethylene, while it is the most common plastic and has varied uses in packaging and containers, is not commonly used for transparent drinkware as it does not possess the same level of clarity. Polypropylene is another common plastic and is used in items such as ropes, carpets, and food containers, but these products are not typically transparent.