Bakelite is :

Options

A. Chain-growth polymer
B. Step-growth polymer
C. Both (a)and(b)
D. Elastomer

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify Bakelite**: Bakelite is a type of synthetic polymer. It is important to understand its classification in the context of polymer chemistry.

2. **Determine the Type of Polymer**: Bakelite is classified as a step growth polymer. This means it is formed through a specific type of polymerization process.

3. **Understand Step Growth Polymerization**: Step growth polymerization involves the reaction of bifunctional or multifunctional monomers. In this process, these monomers react to form dimers, trimers, and eventually long-chain polymers.

4. **Identify the Reaction Type**: Bakelite is specifically a condensation polymer. This means that during its formation, small molecules such as water or ammonia are released as by-products.

5. **Know the Monomers Involved**: The primary monomers used in the formation of Bakelite are phenol and formaldehyde.

6. **Explain the Polymerization Process**:
- The reaction begins with phenol (C6H5OH) reacting with formaldehyde (CH2O).
- This reaction leads to the formation of a compound that contains hydroxymethyl groups (–CH2OH).
- As the polymerization progresses, these compounds react further, resulting in the elimination of water molecules, which leads to the formation of cross-linked structures characteristic of Bakelite.

7. **Conclude the Answer**: Based on the above points, we conclude that Bakelite is a step growth polymer formed through the condensation polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde.

### Final Answer:
Bakelite is a step growth polymer.