Polymers
- Polymers are large molecules of high relative molecular mass and are made by linking together large numbers of smaller molecules called monomers
- Each monomer is a repeat unit and is connected to the adjacent units via covalent bonds
- Polymerisation reactions usually require high pressures and the use of a catalyst
- Many everyday materials such as resins, plastics, polystyrene cups, nylon etc. are polymers
- These are manufactured and are called synthetic polymers
- Nature also produces polymers which are called natural or biological polymers
Diagram showing how lots of monomers bond together to form a polymer
Exam Tip
Polymers are made from smaller units called monomers that link together to form a long polymer chain.
