Question

What is a polymer in chemistry?

Answer 1

1. In literal sense, polymer means many parts which has been derived by combining two Greek words poly and mer.
2. Thus, it can be said that it is a build up of many smaller molecules and has a high molecular mass. Therefore, polymers are also known as macromolecules.
3. Polymers are thus formed by the repetition of simple reactive structural molecules which are known as monomers.
4. These monomers are bonded to each other using the covalent bonds.
5. The reaction that helps in the formation of polymers from monomers is known as polymerization.
6. Polymers have a variety of applications in the formations of toys, cutleries, paints etc.
7. The main industries that use polymers are - plastics, elastomers, fibers, paints and varnishes.
8. A common example of polymer known is Polythene - whose monomeric unit is ethene $\left({\mathrm{C}}_2{\mathrm{H}}_4\right)$.