2002 - D. Gilliland
Polymers (poly = many, mer = parts) are giant molecules made up of smaller molecules called monomers (mono= one, mer= part), joined together in a repeating pattern to form a long chain.
Monomers are
small organic compounds with one or more double or triple bonds (such as
ethene or ethyne). By breaking one of the bonds in the double or
triple bond between the carbon atoms, these molecules can bond to each other
making a long chain of repeating molecules.
A polymer is similar to
a necklace made of identical repeating beads. The necklace would be analogous to
the polymer while the beads would be analogous to the monomers. Actually most necklaces are made of
plastics (which are polymers).
It's similar to individual couples (monomers) that are holding both hands (double bond). Each couple can let go of one hand and all join hands to make a long, repeating chain (polymer).
The process of monomers bonding together to make a polymer is known as polymerization.
There are natural polymers and synthetic (man made) polymers. Here are a few of each:
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
Synthetic polymers are often called plastics. You probably recognize the synthetic polymers listed above - you use them on a daily basis. Our society has become very dependent upon plastics; they can be found in the classroom, in the home, in your car... you even wear them.
Below are some of the more common plastics. Click on each to see how they form and what use they are to man.
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
