Chapter 26, Problem 26.15YT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Describe the substitution pattern on the phenyl rings and the reason behind that pattern in Bakelite.

Concept introduction:

Bakelite is a network polymer. The reaction between phenol and formaldehyde leads to the formation of Bakelite. This polymer has high extent of branching and no recognizable linearity and, therefore, can be described as a single large molecule. Branching is due to the presence of multiple reactive sites. Substitution is on phenol ring.