Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
Here, we want to suggest the reasons for the differences between the two polymers
a) Melting point
The reason for differences in the melting point of the polymers could be due to a number of factors
These include:
i) The presence of large and bulky side groups
ii) The presence of aromatic groups
iii) The presence of double or triple bonds (stronger intermolecular forces). These are much stronger bonds than single bonds. Thus, their presence in the polymer chain of Polymer Y would mean that Polymer Y would be of a higher melting temperature compared to polymer z which lacks the above-listed properties
b) Rigidity and Flexibility
From what we have in the question, polymer Y is stronger than polymer z.
These are terms that are used to describe the ability of the polymer to bend under applied pressure.
Linearity is a factor that causes a polymer to be flexible. A polymer that has sides and branches would be more rigid than one without it.
What this means is that Polymer Y as a result of the presence of bulky side groups and branching is expected to be more rigid than polymer Z
c) Stretch
This still has to do with the structure of the polymer. When a polymer is linear, with no branches, when it is pulled, its chains are easily moved in the same direction. This causes it to respond in the direction of the applied force and thus, becomes more responsive to the applied force compared to a polymer that has bulky side groups attached to it which would respond slowly or need an external factor such as high temperature to cause it to respond.
Thus, we have polymer Z being, more stretchy than polymer Y