Question

Define each of the following terms: a. monomer b. polymer C. copolymer

Short answer

A monomer is a molecule that can bind to others to form a polymer. A polymer is a large molecule made of repeating monomeric subunits. A copolymer is a polymer derived from two or more different monomers.

Step-by-step solution

Defining Monomer

Identify a monomer as the basic building block of polymers. It is a molecule that can bind chemically to other molecules to form a polymer. In many cases, monomers are organic compounds that contain double bonds or functional groups that can react with other monomer molecules to form larger structures.

Defining Polymer

Explain what a polymer is by identifying it as a large molecule, or macromolecule, composed of many repeated subunits. These subunits are the monomers mentioned in the previous step. The process by which polymers are formed from monomers is known as polymerization.

Defining Copolymer

Describe a copolymer as a polymer that is formed from two (or more) different types of monomers. This results in a polymer chain with a varying sequence of the different monomeric units, which can affect the physical properties of the resulting material.

Key concepts

Understanding Monomers

A monomer is akin to a single bead in a vast necklace, which we term a polymer. Imagine a tiny molecule that serves as the fundamental unit in this expansive chain. Monomers possess a special ability: they can link up with identical or different molecules to create a larger structure through chemical reactions. Typically, these small molecules boast reactive groups such as double bonds or functional groups that act like clasps, enabling them to connect with one another.

Take for instance ethylene, a simple organic compound with a double bond. In the right conditions, it can react with other ethylene molecules to form polyethylene, a pliable plastic found in numerous everyday items. This ability of monomers to undergo polymerization is crucial, as it lays the foundation for creating an array of complex materials we use daily.

• Monomers are small, reactive molecules.
• They possess 'connective' features like double bonds or functional groups.
• Monomers link together to form larger structures, or polymers.

What is a Polymer?

If we conceive of monomers as individual bricks, a polymer would then be the wall built from these bricks. A polymer is a large molecule, a macromolecule composed of countless repeating units – the monomers – bound together. This formation process, termed polymerization, transforms simple and small monomers into intricate and colossal polymer chains.

Polymers come in diverse forms; some are natural, like cellulose in plants or proteins in our bodies, while others are synthetic, such as nylon or polystyrene. Consider the elasticity of rubber or the sturdy nature of Kevlar; these are the results of different monomers and polymer chains creating materials with unique properties.

• Polymers are large chains made up of repeating monomer units.
• The process of creating these chains is called polymerization.
• Both natural and synthetic polymers are essential in various applications.

Exploring Copolymers

While a polymer is like a homogenous rope woven from a single type of thread, a copolymer is analogous to a rope made from strands of different colors and strengths. A copolymer forms when two or more distinct types of monomers unite in the same polymer chain. This mélange of different monomers can dramatically alter the material's characteristics.

Think of copolymers as customizable materials; by varying the monomers used, we can tailor the flexibility, temperature resistance, and durability of the resultant polymer. For instance, by combining styrene and butadiene monomers, we get SBR rubber, a material with remarkable impact resistance and employed widely in car tires.

• Copolymers consist of two or more different monomers.
• They can be designed to exhibit specific properties desirable for certain applications.
• The diversity in monomers allows for a vast range of material applications.