Polymers are large molecules made of repeating units called monomers. They're integral to the structure of matter, and occur in synthetic functions as well as organic. In nature they're important to life and health.
Polymers are made of several monomers bonded together. Monomers are simple molecules like ethylene or amino acids. They create complex structures when joined. There are countless creative variations.
Polymer comes from the Greek "poly," or many, and "mer," or part. The process of polymerization links monomers together.
Natural polymers include proteins, nucleic acids and polysaccharides, vital for biological processes and structures. Proteins for instance are polymers or complex molecules made of amino acids, responsible for cell functions.
Enzymes, types of protein, speed up metabolism and biochemical reactions. Collagen brings strength and elasticity to skin and connective tissues. Cellulose, a polymer in plant cell walls, gives structural support.
Chitin, found in exoskeletons of insects and crustaceans, offers protection and structural integrity. Natural polymers are instrumental in ecosystem dynamics.
Polysaccharides like lignin, which reinforces woody plants, contribute to the carbon cycle. Lignin helps sequester carbon through plant growth, its use of CO2, and decomposition.
During photosynthesis, plants absorb or 'fix' carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A portion of carbon is used for growth. Another portion is used in respiration, in which the plant breaks down sugars for energy.
Natural polymers can be classified into several categories. These include:
Proteins: Composed of amino acids, proteins are essential to biological systems as enzymes, structural components, and signaling molecules.
Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA are polymers made up of nucleotide monomers. They carry genetic information.
Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates like starch and cellulose are polysaccharides composed of sugar monomers. They're energy storage and structural components in plants.
Natural Rubber: Sourced from the latex of rubber trees, natural rubber is an elastic polymer.
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