IndexNatural polymersSynthetic polymerUses of polymersThe term “polymer” is composed of two words, (polus, meaning “many, very”) and (meros, meaning “parts”), and refers to a molecule whose structure is composed of multiple repeating units, from which a characteristic of high relative molecular mass originates. The units that make up these polymers are known as polymer. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Polymerization is of two types: Addition polymerization Condensation polymerization or stepwise growth polymerization. Addition Polymerization: Addition polymerization occurs due to addition reaction when monomers bond together without losing any atoms. This happens with monomers that have double bonds. During the reaction, the double bonds open, creating a long continuous chain of polymer. Addition polymerization is widely used in chemical industries to create synthetic polymers such as polyethylene (used in food packaging and plastic bag manufacturing). Condensation polymerization: Condensation polymerization occurs when monomers come together but with the elimination of a byproduct (usually water). An excellent example of condensation polymerization is the polymerization of nylon from monomers with carboxylic acids and basic amines. The reaction creates a link between each monomer and produces water as a byproduct and is used to make nylon fibers for clothing. Types of Polymers: Polymers are of two types; natural and synthetic polymers. Natural Polymers Natural polymers occur naturally from plants and other renewable resources. Natural polymers include amber, wool, silk, rubber, cellulose, proteins, etc. The most common natural polymer is DNA, which is the most basic constituent of the human body. The DNA molecule is made up of monomers called nucleotides. The monomers are connected by a condensation reaction so that many nucleotides are linked in a chain to form the polymeric DNA molecule. All natural polymers are environmentally friendly and are very important in our life. Synthetic polymers Synthetic polymers are artificial polymers. They are classified into four main categories: thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers and synthetic fibers. They are commonly found in consumer products such as plastic bags, electrical devices, pipes, super glue etc. Some more common synthetic polymers include Bakelite, nylon, neoprene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polypropylene, LDPE, HDPE etc. Synthetic polymers are not biodegradable. This means they cannot be broken down by microorganisms, so they can last for many years in waste causing pollution. Uses of Polymers Both natural and man-made polymers are used in our daily lives. Natural polymers such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and nucleic acids are all essential parts of our diet and must be consumed regularly. Cellulose is the main component in the production of wood and paper. Cellulose is also used as a raw material for the production of plastics. Silk and wool are used to make clothes for us. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Synthetic polymers are used in industries to produce household products and other consumer products. LDPE is used to make toys, hoses, insulating covers (electrical wires). HDPE is used for internal insulation of coaxial cable and for manufacturing.