Polymers

What is a Polymer? A polymer is a large molecule that forms when many smaller molecules are linked together by covalent bonds Polymers can be either natural or synthetic

Natural Polymers Natural polymers are produced by organisms and plants. These include: Starches Cellulose Proteins Nucleic Acids

Starches Starches contain hundreds of glucose molecules Plants store starches for food and to build stems Flour for breads and pastas are made of starches

Cellulose Cellulose is the most abundant organic compound found in nature Cellulose give strength to plants Animals and humans cannot digest cellulose

Proteins A protein contains at least 100 amino acids linked together through strong bonds Proteins make up muscle fiber and are also found in hair, fingernails, and blood The human body typically contains 300,000 different proteins

Nucleic Acids Nucleic acids are found in plant and animal cells RNA and DNA are the two types of nucleic acids

Synthetic Polymers Synthetic polymers are synthesized in laboratory settings. Synthetic polymers include: Rubber Nylon Polyethylene

Rubber Rubber can be found naturally by using the sap from a tropical plant, the rubber plant tree However, after WWII the supply of natural rubber was diminished, forcing chemists to produce synthesized rubber

Synthesized rubber is made from hydrocarbons and petroleum Rubber is typically used in vehicle tires, adhesives, and sports equipment

Nylon Nylon was first synthesized in an attempt to replace silk Nylon fibers are very strong and durable Nylon is typically used in parachutes, fishing line, and some types of carpets

Polyethylene Polyethylene is found in all plastic products

How it’s made KSLc