Question

post-test
how do thermoplastics and thermoset differ?
a. they are different colors.
b. after curing, thermoplastic melts when heat is applied.
c. thermoset is only used when metal is not available.
d. thermoset is more likely to melt after curing.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Color is not a defining difference between thermoplastics and thermosets. Eliminate A.
• Option B: Thermoplastics can be melted and re - molded upon heating even after curing (due to their linear or branched polymer structure with weak intermolecular forces). This is a key difference from thermosets.
• Option C: Thermoset's usage is not dependent on metal availability. It has its own applications based on its properties (like high heat resistance after curing). Eliminate C.
• Option D: Thermosets, after curing, have a cross - linked polymer structure which makes them highly heat - resistant and they do not melt upon heating (they decompose instead). So D is incorrect.

Answer:

B. After curing, thermoplastic melts when heat is applied.