Polymers large molecules made by linking smaller, single unit (monomers) together Many natural polymers form important organic molecules such as DNA, and proteins Synthetic polymers are also often made into plastics and textiles such as nylon, teflon, PVC, polyethene, etc.
Polymerization formation of polymers from the reaction of monomers May occur in nature, however, manufacturers have learned how to synthetically produce many types of useful polymers.
Addition Polymerization many unsaturated monomers with double or triple bonds join together in addition reactions Ex: Polyethylene production Plastic Animations
Ex) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) used to make many plastics used to insulate wires, fabrics for raincoats and upholstery material and vinyl records.
Ex) Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene)
Ex) Polystyrene
Condensation Polymers involve the condensing or removal of a small molecule such as H 2 O, NH 3 or HCl from the functional groups of two different monomers to form a polymer
A) Esterification Polymerization: alcohol and carboxylic acid monomers. Ex) polyester
Ex) Amide Linkage (NH 2 group) Amide -proteins in living things, nylon
Proteins
Natural Polymers Lipids –glycerol and fatty acids monomers Proteins – amino acid monomers Carbohydrates –monosaccharides (sugar) monomers Cellulose-glucose monomers Wood, paper, cotton Animation Gallery
Synthetic Polymers Polyesters Polyamides (nylon) Kevlar
Videos Proteins: Structure and Function (Complete Video) Saturated and Unsaturated Fats and Oils Synthesis of Organic Compounds Pharmaceuticals Petrochemical Industry The Age of Polymers (Complete Video) Plastic Videos