@chunling07 wrote:
I'm a college freshman, so my knowing about chemistry is not much. I want to know exactly what a polymer is, how does it work, and how is it formed. Thanks!
Hello @chunling07 MyPoints ,
A polymer is a large molecule made up of repeating smaller units called monomers. Think of it like a chain, where each link is a monomer.
How Polymers Work
Polymers have unique properties based on how their monomers are arranged and bonded together. These properties make them useful in a wide range of applications, from plastics and textiles to DNA in living organisms.
How Polymers Are Formed
Polymers are formed through polymerization, where monomers chemically bond together. There are two main types:
Addition Polymerization: Monomers add together without losing any atoms.
Condensation Polymerization: Monomers join together, losing small molecules like water as by-products.
Polymers can be natural (like cellulose) or synthetic (like nylon).
Best Regards,
James Henry
