Organic Chemistry

Super glue

P

robably no group of

synthetic compounds

is more important to modern

life than synthetic polymers. A

polymeris a large molecule made

by linking together repeating units of small

molecules called monomers. The process of

linking them together is called polymerization.

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Synthetic Polymers

ethylene monomers polyethylene

++

nM M M MMM M M M M

polymerization

monomer polymer

Unlike small organic molecules, which are of interest because of their chemical

properties, these giant molecules are interesting because of their physicalproperties,

which make them useful in everyday life. Some synthetic polymers resemble natural

substances, but most are quite different from those found in nature. Such diverse items

as photographic film, compact discs, rugs, food wrap, artificial joints, Super glue,

toys, bottles, weather stripping, automobile body parts, shoe soles, and condoms are

made of synthetic polymers.

Polymers can be divided into two broad groups: synthetic polymers and

biopolymers(natural polymers). Synthetic polymers are synthesized by scientists,

whereas biopolymers are synthesized by organisms. Examples of biopolymers are