The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Petrochemicals are chemical products derived from petroleum (crude oil) and natural gas. They serve as the fundamental raw materials for the manufacturing of a wide range of synthetic materials, including plastics, synthetic fibres, synthetic rubbers, dyes, and detergents.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon are polymers produced through chemical synthesis using petrochemical intermediates. For example, polyester is made using ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, which are derived from petroleum.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Cotton and Jute are natural fibres obtained directly from plants. Cotton is a cellulosic fibre from the cotton plant, and Jute is a bast fibre from the jute plant. They do not require petroleum for their structural formation.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Natural rubber is obtained from the latex of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). It is a natural polymer of isoprene. While synthetic rubber is derived from petrochemicals (like neoprene or Buna-S), the statement specifically specifies "Natural rubber."
Key Takeaway:
Petrochemicals are the source of synthetic polymers (nylon, polyester, acrylic, synthetic rubber), whereas materials like cotton, jute, silk, wool, and natural rubber are naturally occurring biopolymers.