A 0.1M solution of styrene dissolved in toluene is stable for a much longer peri

Question

A 0.1M solution of styrene dissolved in toluene is stable for a much longer period than a sample of pure styrene. What is the reason for this fact?

a) styrene polymerizes faster than toluene

b) the rate constant for polymerization of styrene is larger in toluene

c) the concentration of styrene is lower in the toluene solution than in pure styrene so all bimolecular polymerization steps occur more slowly.

d) the order of the reaction increases in toluene

e) styrene has a higher molecular weight than does toluene

Explanation / Answer

The rate of polymerization is dependent upon the monomer concentration. In the toluene solution, the concentration of styrene is lower than its concentration in pure styrene. Thus, rate of polymerization will be lower in the toluene solution. So, as the rate is lower, styrene will be stable for a longer period.

So, the answer is c: The concentration of styrene is lower in the toluene solution than in pure styrene so all bimolecular polymerization steps occur more slowly.

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