MasteryExams
General Science • ChemistryHard

Which of the following polymers is classified as a biodegradable polyester formed by bacterial fermentation of hydroxyalkanoates?

A. Polyethylene terephthalate
B. Polyhydroxybutyrate valerate✓ Correct Answer
C. Polytetrafluoroethylene
D. Polyvinyl chloride

💡 Solution & Explanation

Polyhydroxybutyrate valerate is a copolymer of hydroxybutyric acid and hydroxyvaleric acid synthesized by certain bacteria, serving as a fully biodegradable eco-friendly thermoplastic polyester. Polyethylene terephthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyvinyl chloride are synthetic petrochemically derived polymers that persist in the environment for centuries. Biodegradable polymers play a critical role in reducing plastic waste accumulation in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

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