Question

Explain the terms of polymer and monomer.

Answer 1

Hint:
Poly – Many.
Mono – One.
Mer – A share.
The etymologies of these two words suffice as quite effective hints in this case.

Complete step-by-step solution:
Let’s go through each of these terms one at a time to help you understand each of them better
Polymer:
A polymer is a large molecule/macromolecule which is a combination of many smaller molecules also known as monomers. 103−107u is the range of the molar mass of a polymer.
It is possible to find polymers naturally in plants and animals. These polymers are referred to as natural polymers. The polymers that are man-made however are known as synthetic polymers.
Different polymers have a number of unique physical and chemical properties due to which they find usage in everyday life.
Examples: Nylon 6,6 which is made up of monomers adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine.

Monomers:
A monomer is defined as a simple molecule with two or more binding sites through which it forms covalent linkages with other monomer molecules to form the macromolecule.
Monomers are thus building blocks of polymers. Only those simple molecules with two or more bonding sites can act as monomers.
Examples: Alkenes ($R-CH=CH-R$, where R stands for an alkyl group), vinyl chloride (${{H}_{2}}C=CHCl$) and adipic acid (structure seen in the polymer example)

NOTE: It is very important to know the distinction between monomers and polymers to be able to answer this question correctly. Also, to ensure that you give a brilliant answer, make sure that it is rife with examples, as is seen in the above solution.