Macromolecules and Polymers

Macromolecules are very large molecules composed of thousands to millions of atoms. They typically have a high molecular mass (ranging from 10¹ to 10¹²). Macromolecules are essential for biological functions, material production, and industrial applications. They can be natural (formed in living organisms) or synthetic (manmade).

• Polymers are a type of macromolecule made by linking many small, repeating units called monomers. 
• The process of forming polymers is called polymerisation. Monomers can be identical (homopolymers) or different (copolymers).
• Polymers can have linear, branched, or cross-linked structures depending on how monomers are joined.

A. Natural Macromolecules: These occur in nature and are essential to life:

B. Synthetic (Manmade) Macromolecules: These are produced in labs and industries to mimic or improve natural materials:

Polymer	Monomer	Structural Formula of the Polymer	Uses
Polyethylene	Ethylene (CH₂=CH₂)		Plastic bags, packaging
PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)	Vinyl chloride (CH₂=CHCl)		Pipes, window frames, hospital bags
Polystyrene	Styrene (C₆H₅-CH=CH₂)		Thermocol, disposable containers
Polyacrylonitrile	Acrylonitrile (CH₂=CH-C≡N)		Wool-like fabric, sweaters
Teflon	Tetrafluoroethylene (CF₂=CF₂)		Non-stick cookware, insulation
Polypropylene	Propylene (CH₃-CH=CH₂)		Furniture, containers, syringes

• Macromolecules are large molecules made of many atoms; they include natural and manmade polymers.
• Natural macromolecules like starch, cellulose, proteins, and DNA are essential for life.
• Man-made macromolecules such as plastics, fibres, and rubber are used in daily life.
• Polymers are made by repeating small units called monomers through polymerization.
• Properties of polymers depend on the type of monomers and how they are arranged (straight, branched, or cross-linked).