Polymerization
What is Polymerization?
Polymerization is the chemical process by which small molecules (monomers) are covalently linked together to form large, chain-like macromolecules (polymers). The two main types are addition polymerization (chain-growth), in which monomers add sequentially to a growing chain without loss of atoms (e.g., polyethylene from ethylene), and condensation polymerization (step-growth), in which monomers react in a stepwise manner with elimination of small molecules such as water (e.g., nylon, polyester). Polymers are the basis of plastics, rubbers, fibers, coatings, and biomolecules including proteins, DNA, and cellulose.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Polymerization is the chemical process by which small molecules (monomers) are covalently linked together to form large, chain-like macromolecules (polymers). The two main types are addition polymerization (chain-growth), in which monomers add sequentially to a growing chain without loss of atoms (e.g., polyethylene from ethylene), and condensation polymerization (step-growth), in which monomers react in a stepwise manner with elimination of small molecules such as water (e.g., nylon, polyester). Polymers are the basis of plastics, rubbers, fibers, coatings, and biomolecules including proteins, DNA, and cellulose.