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Chapter 17: Problem 19

What is a polymer?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A polymer is a large molecule formed from repeating units called monomers.

Step by step solution

01

- Define Basic Concept

Understand what a polymer is. A polymer is a large molecule composed of repeating structural units, typically connected by covalent chemical bonds.
02

- Identify Monomers

Recognize that these repeating units, called monomers, are the smaller molecules that serve as the building blocks for the polymer.
03

- Types of Polymers

There are different types of polymers, including natural polymers such as proteins and nucleic acids, and synthetic polymers like plastics and synthetic fibers.
04

- Example of a Polymer

Consider polyethylene as an example of a synthetic polymer, made up of repeating ethylene monomers.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

polymer
A polymer is a very large molecule, composed of many repeated subunits. These subunits are known as monomers. They are connected by strong covalent bonds and create a long chain, which can be branched or unbranched. This structure gives polymers unique properties, making them essential in various applications, from everyday items like plastic containers to complex biological structures like DNA.
monomers
Monomers are the smaller molecules that form the building blocks for polymers. By repeating in a sequence, they create the larger structure known as a polymer. Think of monomers as individual beads in a necklace; by connecting each bead (monomer), you eventually make a full necklace (polymer). Common monomers include ethylene, which forms polyethylene, and amino acids, which form proteins.
types of polymers
Polymers can be categorized into natural and synthetic types.
  • Natural Polymers: These are found in nature. Examples include proteins, which are composed of amino acids, and cellulose, a key component in plants.
  • Synthetic Polymers: These are human-made. A few examples are plastics like polyethylene, nylon, and synthetic rubber.

Both types of polymers have vast applications. Natural polymers are crucial for biological functions, while synthetic polymers are widely used in industrial applications.
polyethylene
Polyethylene is a common synthetic polymer made from the monomer ethylene. It is one of the simplest and most inexpensive polymers, yet extremely versatile.
Here are a few points about polyethylene:
  • It is widely used in packaging materials, plastic bags, and bottles.
  • It is known for its durability and resistance to moisture.
  • There are different types of polyethylene, such as Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), each with distinct properties depending on their molecular structure.

This adaptability makes polyethylene one of the most important materials in modern life.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Draw the line-angle structural formula for each of the following compounds: a. 1,3 -dibromo-5-chlorobenzene b. 2,4 -dichlorotoluene c. propylbenzene

Write the balanced chemical equation for the complete combustion of each of the following hydrocarbons found in gasoline used to start a fire: a. nonane b. toluene

Draw the condensed structural formula for each of the following amides: a. propionamide b. 2 -methylpentanamide c. methanamide

Draw the condensed structural formula for each of the following: (17.7) a. formamide b. ethylpropylamine c. diethylmethylamine

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