Which of the following is a synthetic polymer?

Options

A. Starch
B. Natural rubber
C. Cellulose acetate
D. Polyethylene

Answer

To determine which of the given options is a synthetic polymer, we will analyze each option step by step.

### Step 1: Understand the Definition of Synthetic Polymers
Synthetic polymers are man-made polymers that are created through chemical processes, as opposed to natural polymers, which occur in nature.

**Hint:** Remember that synthetic polymers are artificially created, while natural polymers are derived from natural sources.

### Step 2: Analyze Each Option
1. **Starch**:
- Starch is a natural polymer made up of glucose units. It is produced by plants during photosynthesis.
- **Conclusion**: Starch is a natural polymer.

2. **Natural Rubber**:
- As the name suggests, natural rubber is obtained from the latex of rubber trees. It is a natural polymer.
- **Conclusion**: Natural rubber is a natural polymer.

3. **Cellulose Acetate**:
- Cellulose acetate is derived from cellulose, which is a natural polymer found in the cell walls of plants. Although it undergoes some chemical modification, it is still based on a natural polymer.
- **Conclusion**: Cellulose acetate is considered a natural polymer.

4. **Polyethylene**:
- Polyethylene (also known as polythene) is a synthetic polymer made from the polymerization of ethylene monomers. It is widely used in plastic products and is entirely man-made.
- **Conclusion**: Polyethylene is a synthetic polymer.

### Step 3: Identify the Correct Answer
Based on the analysis:
- Starch: Natural polymer
- Natural Rubber: Natural polymer
- Cellulose Acetate: Natural polymer
- Polyethylene: Synthetic polymer

Thus, the correct answer is **Polyethylene**.

**Final Answer:** The synthetic polymer among the given options is **Polyethylene**.