Final answer:
The synthesis of nylon employs a polycondensation reaction between adipic acid and hexanediamine, forming nylon-66 in between the layers of the reacting solutions. The polymer forms at the interface of the two solutions, and it is removed with a device like tweezers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Synthesis of Nylon
The synthesis of nylon involves a polycondensation reaction between two specific monomers: adipic acid and hexanediamine. This process is an example of condensation polymerization wherein each time a bond is formed, a molecule of water is released. Thus, for the synthesis of nylon, which is a type of polyamide, the polymer will form in between layers of the solutions of 5% hexamethylenediamine and 5% adipoyl chloride. During the reaction, adipic acid and hexanediamine linked by amide bonds form the long chains of nylon-66, releasing water molecules as a byproduct. To remove the formed nylon, one would typically use a device like tweezers or a hook to physically lift the polymer film that forms at the interface of the two aqueous solutions.
Nylon-66 is a well-known synthetic polymer that was first invented in 1935 and finds applications in products like clothing, cooking utensils, and fishing line due to its strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals. This form of nylon is created by a reaction of a dicarboxylic acid (adipic acid) with a diamine (hexanediamine) to form polyamide bonds and water.