The synthetic rubber has replaced natural rubber for domestic and indu

The synthetic rubber has replaced natural rubber for domestic and industrial purposes. Which one of the following is the main reason behind that ?

[amp_mcq option1=”Natural rubber is unable to meet the growing demand of different industries” option2=”Natural rubber is grown in tropical countries only” option3=”Raw material for synthetic rubber is easily available” option4=”Natural rubber is not durable” correct=”option1″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2016
The main reason synthetic rubber has largely replaced natural rubber for many purposes is the inability of natural rubber production to keep pace with the ever-increasing global demand, especially from large industries like the automotive sector. Synthetic rubber can be manufactured on a massive industrial scale, offering a more consistent supply and allowing for the tailoring of properties for specific applications.
Increasing demand and limited supply of natural rubber are key drivers for the dominance of synthetic rubber.
Natural rubber is derived from the latex of the rubber tree, requiring specific climate conditions (tropical) and time for tree growth. Synthetic rubber is produced from petroleum-based chemicals, offering greater control over production volume and material properties.