what is the difference between thermoplastic …

Types of plastics: Plastics are of two types – thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.

1. Thermoplastics – Thermoplastics get soft when heated and hard again when they are cooled.  Example – polythene and poly vinyl chloride. Such plastics are used in making toys, containers, plastic bags, raincoats and combs. Thermoplastics are used in making those articles which do not get too hot, and are flexible.
2. Thermosetting plastics – Thermosetting plastics get soft only one, the first time they are heated after being made. When such plastics are heated for the first time, they become soft and can be moulded to make an article of any desired shape. On cooling, the article becomes hard and rigid. Example – Bakelite and melamine. They are used in making handles of cooking utensils, plates, cups, floor tiles, electrical fittings, telephone instruments, etc.