Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most commercially important polymers (Table

Chapter 15, Problem 15.88

(choose chapter or problem)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most commercially important polymers (Table 12.5). PVC is made by addition polymerization of vinyl chloride (C2H3Cl). Vinyl chloride is synthesized from ethylene (C2H4) in a twostep process involving the following equilibria: Equilibrium 1: C2H4{g) + Cl2{g) C2H4Cl2{g) Equilibrium 2: C2H4Cl2{g) C2H3Cl{g) + HCl{g) The product of Equilibrium 1 is 1.2-dichloroethane, a compound in which one Cl atom is bonded to each C atom. (a) Draw Lewis structures for C2H4Cl2 and C2H3Cl. What are the C -C bond orders in these two compounds? (b) Use average bond enthalpies (Table 8.4) to estimate the enthalpy changes in the two equilibria. (c) How would the yield of C2H4Cl2 in Equilibrium 1 vary with temperature and volume? (d) How would the yield of C2H3Cl in Equilibrium 2 vary with temperature and volume? (e) Look up the normal boiling points of 1,2-dichloroethane and vinyl chloride in a sourcebook, such as the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. Based on these data, propose a reactor design (analogous to Figure 15.12) that could be used to maximize the amount of C2H3Cl produced by using the two equilibria.

Unfortunately, we don't have that question answered yet. But you can get it answered in just 5 hours by Logging in or Becoming a subscriber.

Becoming a subscriber
Or look for another answer

×

Login

Login or Sign up for access to all of our study tools and educational content!

Forgot password?
Register Now

×

Register

Sign up for access to all content on our site!

Or login if you already have an account

×

Reset password

If you have an active account we’ll send you an e-mail for password recovery

Or login if you have your password back