Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating units called monomers from "summary" of Organic Chemistry by John E. McMurry
Polymers are large molecules formed through the repetition of smaller units known as monomers. These monomers link together in a chain-like fashion to create the polymer. This process is often likened to building a long chain by connecting individual links together. The resulting polymer can consist of thousands to millions of monomer units, giving it a complex and often unique structure. The monomers used to create polymers can vary greatly, leading to a wide range of properties and functions exhibited by different polymers. For example, the monomers in polyethylene, a common plastic, are simple ethylene molecules. On the other hand, more complex monomers are used to produce polymers with specific characteristics, such as flexibility, strength, or heat resistance. The process of polymerization, where monomers join together to form a polymer, can occur through different methods. In condensation polymerization, monomers link together while eliminating small molecules like water or alcohol. On the other hand, addition polymerization involves the sequential addition of monomers without the release of any byproducts. Polymers play a crucial role in our everyday lives, with applications ranging from plastics and fibers to biological macromolecules like DNA and proteins. The ability to tailor the structure of polymers by selecting specific monomers allows for the creation of materials with desired properties. This versatility has led to the widespread use of polymers in various industries, from packaging and construction to medicine and electronics.
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