Phenol formaldehyde is historically known as which early plastic?

• A. Bakelite
• B. PVC
• C. Polyethylene
• D. Polystyrene

Answer: (A)

Phenol-formaldehyde resin was the first fully synthetic plastic and became known as Bakelite. It was created by Baekeland and cured with heat and pressure to form a hard, heat‑resistant material that could be used as an electrical insulator and for durable consumer goods. Because it sets permanently and can’t be melted again, it’s a thermosetting polymer, which set it apart from later plastics. The other options are different plastics with distinct building blocks and properties: PVC is a vinyl polymer used for pipes and wiring; polyethylene is a lightweight, flexible plastic for bags and containers; polystyrene is a rigid plastic used for packaging and foam. So phenol-formaldehyde is historically known as Bakelite.