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What is a polymer?

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Quick answer

A polymer is a large molecule made of many small, repeating units linked into long chains. From plastics and rubber to DNA and proteins, polymers are everywhere — their chain structure gives them strength, flexibility, and endless variety. It's a long molecule built from repeating units called monomers.

Key things to understand

  1. It's a long molecule built from repeating units called monomers.
  2. Chaining monomers gives materials strength and flexibility.
  3. Plastics, rubber, and nylon are synthetic polymers.
  4. DNA, proteins, and cellulose are natural polymers.
  5. Changing the units and structure tunes the material's properties.

People also ask

What is a polymer made of?
Many small repeating molecules (monomers) chemically linked into long chains, like beads strung together.
Are polymers natural or synthetic?
Both — plastics and nylon are synthetic, while DNA, proteins, silk, and cellulose are natural polymers.
Why are plastics so versatile?
By varying the building blocks and chain structure, polymers can be made hard or soft, rigid or stretchy, clear or colored.