Monomer

Q: What is the formula for Monomer?

The formula or notation for Monomer is: (-CH₂-CH₂-)n; monomer = CH₂=CH₂ (ethylene); polymerisation: n monomers → polymer

(-CH₂-CH₂-)n; monomer = CH₂=CH₂ (ethylene); polymerisation: n monomers → polymer

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Quick Reference

Formula / Notation	(-CH₂-CH₂-)n; monomer = CH₂=CH₂ (ethylene); polymerisation: n monomers → polymer
Also Known As	Repeating unit (monomer), vinyl monomer, reactive monomer, polymer building block

What is Monomer?

The small, repeating subunit from which a polymer is built. Monomers undergo polymerization reactions to form long chain polymers. Examples include ethylene (monomer of polyethylene), amino acids (monomers of proteins), and glucose (monomer of cellulose and starch).

Formula & Notation

(-CH₂-CH₂-)n; monomer = CH₂=CH₂ (ethylene); polymerisation: n monomers → polymer

Other Names / Synonyms: Repeating unit (monomer), vinyl monomer, reactive monomer, polymer building block

Properties & Characteristics

A monomer is the small, repeating structural unit molecule that undergoes polymerisation to form a polymer. Monomers typically contain a reactive functional group: vinyl monomers (alkenes: ethylene, styrene, vinyl chloride) undergo radical or ionic chain polymerisation; condensation monomers (diacids + diols or diamines) undergo step-growth polymerisation with loss of small molecules. The degree of polymerisation (DP) determines the length of the polymer chain.

Uses & Applications

Monomers are the raw materials for the polymer industry: ethylene → polyethylene, propylene → polypropylene, vinyl chloride → PVC, styrene → polystyrene, caprolactam → nylon-6, terephthalic acid + ethylene glycol → PET. Biological monomers: amino acids → proteins, nucleotides → DNA/RNA, glucose → cellulose/starch.

Safety Information

Vinyl monomers (styrene, acrylates, vinyl chloride) are flammable and many are carcinogens (vinyl chloride causes angiosarcoma). They must be stored with inhibitors (hydroquinone, 4-methoxyphenol) to prevent spontaneous polymerisation. Uninhibited monomers can undergo explosive exothermic polymerisation if heated.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Monomer

Formula (-CH₂-CH₂-)n; monomer = CH₂=CH₂ (ethylene); polymerisation: n monomers → polymer

Index All "M" terms

Synonyms Repeating unit (monomer), vinyl monomer, reactive monomer, polymer building block

Frequently Asked Questions

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More "M" Terms

2-Methyltetrahydrofuran C5H10O m-Chloroperoxybenzoic acid C7H5ClO3 Macromolecule Magnesium Mg Magnesium carbonate MgCO3 Magnesium chloride MgCl2 Magnesium hydroxide Mg(OH)2 Magnesium oxide MgO Magnesium sulfate MgO4S Magnetic Quantum Number m_l quantum number: −l to +l integers; e.g., p: m_l = −1, 0, +1 Main Group Elements Malachite green C23H25ClN2

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.