Polymers

Polymers are long molecules that consist of repeating units called monomers. The word polymer comes from the Greek words “poly, meaning many” and “mer, meaning part.”

Because polymers are long chains of molecules, the parts are held together by intermolecular forces. The strong bonds between the monomers result in high tensile strength and high melting points. Polymers are also randomly oriented, and thus, become very tangled and twisted.

The monomers that make a polymer can either be identical or have several differences. The differences between the monomers determine what types of properties the polymer will have. Polymers have a wide range of functions, since their properties can be manipulated through science. By adding functional groups to the polymer chains, scientists are able to make new and improved materials.

Polymers are everywhere – both natural and artificial. Even proteins and DNA are made up of polymers. Through polymers, people were able to synthesize materials and replace natural ones.