The monomer of natural rubber is?

Appeared in: KPSC Staff Nurse - 2016

Explanation

Natural rubber is a polymer, which is a large molecule made of repeating subunits called monomers.
The specific monomer that polymerizes to form natural rubber is isoprene (chemical name: 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene).
The polymer itself is known as polyisoprene, and its specific structure (cis-1,4-polyisoprene) gives natural rubber its unique elastic properties.

Option B: Butadiene is the monomer for polybutadiene, a type of synthetic rubber. It is not the monomer for natural rubber.
Option C: Chloroprene is the monomer for polychloroprene, a synthetic rubber commercially known as Neoprene.
Option D: Ethylene is the monomer for polyethylene, which is a common plastic, not a rubber (elastomer).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Monomers and Polymers as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Natural rubber latex is a key material in many medical products, including examination gloves, catheters, and tubing.
Nurses and other healthcare professionals have a higher risk of developing Type I hypersensitivity (latex allergy) due to frequent exposure. Symptoms can range from skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
What if? If a patient reports a latex allergy, the nurse must ensure a completely latex-free environment for their care. This involves using alternative materials like nitrile or vinyl for gloves and checking all equipment to prevent an allergic reaction.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from general chemistry, a non-nursing subject that can appear in entrance exams.
First, identify the key terms in the question: 'monomer' (the basic repeating chemical unit) and 'natural rubber' (the specific polymer).
Access your knowledge of basic polymer chemistry to recall the specific monomer that forms natural rubber.
Systematically evaluate each option. Isoprene is the correct monomer for natural rubber.
Eliminate the other options by identifying the polymers they form: Butadiene (synthetic rubber), Chloroprene (Neoprene), and Ethylene (polyethylene plastic).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 406-408

Practise the full KPSC Staff Nurse - 2016

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.