What is a polymer?
A polymer is a large molecule made from repeating units arranged in chains or networks.
How it works and key principles
Structure and types: Small units called monomers join by chemical bonds; chain length, branching and cross-links influence material properties. Polyethylene is synthetic and cellulose is natural. Plastics are not all one polymer, and polymers are not all used as plastics.
Evidence, examples and limits
Uses and environment: Different polymers serve packaging, textiles, medical materials and coatings. Durability can be useful but poor waste management creates environmental problems. Recycling depends on chemistry, additives, product design and local collection; being bio-based does not automatically mean rapidly biodegradable.
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