Which type of rubber is derived from latex obtained from Hevea trees?

Natural rubber is the correct answer because it is directly derived from the latex of Hevea brasiliensis, commonly known as the rubber tree. The latex is a milky fluid that the tree produces as a defense mechanism. When harvested, it's processed into natural rubber, which is characterized by its elasticity and resilience. Natural rubber is widely used in various applications, including tires, footwear, and numerous industrial products due to its excellent mechanical properties.

Other types of rubber, such as synthetic rubber, are made from petroleum-based compounds and do not come from natural sources like the Hevea tree. Composite rubber typically refers to a combination of different materials, which can include both natural and synthetic rubber, but it is not exclusively derived from Hevea latex. Polyurethanes are another class of polymers that can be flexible or rigid and are not classified as rubber derived from Hevea trees. They are produced through a different chemical process, making them distinct from natural rubber. Understanding these differences highlights why natural rubber is specifically identified with the latex from Hevea trees.