JAMB - Chemistry (2002 - No. 34)

which of the following polymers is suitable for packaging and electrical insulation?
polyamide
polyethene
polycarbonate
polystyrene

Explanation

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) are polymers that are used for both packaging and electrical insulation. 

Polyethylene or polyethene (PE) is a popular plastic used for insulating cables, wires, bushings, and transformer components. PE has excellent insulation properties and high dielectric strength. However, Polyethylene is a good choice for packaging because it's non-toxic, food safe, and can be customized into many shapes and sizes. It's also resistant to chemicals, UV light, and moisture, and can be reused while polystyrene is a good choice for electrical insulation because it has low thermal conductivity and prevents the flow of electrical current. Since polystyrene can serve both purposes, it's a better answer compared to polyethene.

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