Monomers
and polymers
Polymers are large complex molecules made up of repeating
monomers.
A monomer is a small basic unit which can form with other
monomers to make polymers.
Carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids are all
examples of polymers.
Making
polymers
Polymers are produced by a condensation reaction, this is
when a water molecule is removed and therefore it links two monomers with a
chemical bond between them.
Breaking
down polymers
Polymers are broken down by a hydrolysis reaction, this
is when a water molecule is added and it breaks the bond which held the two
monomers together.
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| Example of a condensation/hydrolysis reaction |
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