Final answer:
Ethylene and polyethylene are chemically related as the latter is a polymer formed by the polymerization of the ethylene monomers. The properties of polyethylene vary with the chain lengths and the presence of branches in the polymer structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The monomer ethylene (C2H4) and the polymer polyethylene share a fundamental chemical relationship where the polymer is formed by the polymerization of many ethylene monomers. During this process, the double bonds in ethylene molecules open up, allowing them to connect and form long chains of -CH2- units in polyethylene. This polymer is a type of addition polymer, specifically formed through chain addition reactions.
The properties of the resulting polyethylene can vary greatly depending on the relative lengths and the branching of the polymer chains. For example, various types such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) are created by controlling the polymerization process. Recycling polyethylene is vital due to its petrochemical origin and minimal biodegradability, as it helps reduce petrochemical consumption and environmental impact.