Chapter 23.3, Problem 18R

To determine

To explain:The reason for depolymerizaton to be an expensive process.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction: Depolymerization is the process of disintegration of polymers into their constituent monomers by using energy.

In the process of polymerization, the monomers are joined by covalent bonds in a regular fashion to make polymers. The covalent bond between monomers in a polymer is quite strong, and therefore require high temperature and pressure to break. Thus, for depolymerization to occur, an environment of high temperature and pressure is require, which makes it an expensive process.

Conclusion:

Therefore, depolymerization is an expensive process as the monomers in a polymers are joined by strong covalent bonds which require high temperature and pressure to break.