- Polymers are giant molecules formed by linking together small repeating units called monomers via covalent bonds. There are three main types of polymerization: addition, condensation, and copolymerization.
- Properties of polymers depend on factors like the monomer type, the degree of polymerization, tacticity, and whether the polymer is crystalline or amorphous. Common polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene terephthalate.
- Natural rubbers are polymers of the monomer isoprene that provide flexibility and elasticity. However, natural rubber has limitations that are overcome through vulcanization, which introduces cross-links between polymer chains through the addition of sulfur.