Grade 12

Grade 12Polymer


Important Polymers and Their Uses


Polymers are large molecules composed of repeated subunits, known as monomers. They play important roles in our daily lives and can be found in many forms, from natural to synthetic. Understanding these macromolecules is an important part of chemistry, especially in terms of their applications and importance. This lesson will explore several important polymers, both natural and synthetic, along with their uses and characteristics.

Natural polymers

Natural polymers are those that are found in nature and can be extracted. They are essential for biological processes and structural components. Examples of natural polymers include proteins, nucleic acids, cellulose, and rubber.

1. Protein

Proteins are complex polymers made up of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They are important for many biological functions, including enzymatic activities, structural roles, and the transport of molecules. In the human body, proteins such as hemoglobin carry oxygen, while enzymes regulate biochemical reactions.

        NH 2 -CHR-COOH + NH 2 -CHR'-COOH → NH 2 -CHR-CONH-CHR'-COOH + H 2 O
    

2. Nucleic acids

Nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA are polymers that store and transfer genetic information. DNA is composed of nucleotides that are arranged in a double helix structure. RNA performs various functions in coding, decoding and regulation of genes.

        Nucleotide Unit: 
        [sugar-phosphate-base]
    

3. Cellulose

Cellulose is a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants. It is composed of glucose monomers and provides structural support to plant cells. Humans use cellulose to make paper, and it is also used in the textile industry to make materials such as rayon and cellophane.

, Glucose units ,

4. Natural rubber

Natural rubber is an elastic polymer derived from latex, a milky fluid produced by certain plants. It is composed primarily of the polymer polyisoprene. Natural rubber is used for its flexibility and resiliency in products such as tires, shoes, and medical devices.

        Isoprene unit: 
        C 5 H 8
    

Synthetic polymers

Synthetic polymers are man-made polymers derived from petroleum oil. They have a wide range of applications due to their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Important synthetic polymers include polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and nylon.

1. Polyethylene

Polyethylene (or polyethene) is the most common plastic, best known for its use in packaging materials such as grocery bags and bottles. It is formed by the polymerization of ethylene molecules. Polyethylene varies from low density to high density, which affects its properties and uses.

        (C 2 H 4 ) n
    
CH 2 CH 2 ,

2. Polystyrene

Polystyrene is a polymer used to make many consumer products, including containers and disposable cutlery. It is synthesized from the monomer styrene, which can be expanded to form foam products such as Styrofoam.

        (C 8 H 8 ) n
    

3. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

PVC is a durable material used in the manufacture of pipes, flooring, and roofing because it is resistant to environmental degradation and chemicals. It is synthesized from vinyl chloride monomers.

        (C 2 H 3 Cl) n
    
CH 2 Chlorine Chowdhary Chlorine ,

4. Nylon

Nylon is a type of synthetic polymer commonly used in textiles, automotive parts, and ropes. It is known for its strength and elasticity. Nylon is a generic designation for a family of synthetic polymers based on aliphatic polyamides.

        Nylon 6: [-NH-(CH 2 ) 5 -CO-] n
        Nylon 6,6: [-NH-(CH 2 ) 6 -NH-CO-(CH 2 ) 4 -CO-] N
    

In short, polymers, whether natural or synthetic, have shaped the way we live our lives by providing versatility and a wide range of applications in various fields. From building materials and clothing to biological functions and technological innovations, the importance of polymers cannot be underestimated. Their study provides information about their continuous evolution and adaptation in our daily lives.


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