Polymers are large molecules which can be formed by the repeated joining of monomer molecules. They are created through __________ reactions and so are called __________ polymers.
The process involves opening up the double bonds in unsaturated monomers and joining them together in very long chains.
It is the structure of these chains, made up of 1000's of atoms, that determines the polymers properties and therefore its uses. The side branches greatly affect how the chains interact with each other and so influence the polymers strength and apperance.
Another type of polymer is a condensation polymer, __________ is one of the most common. These are made when two __________ monomers react together, alternating in the chain. When a condensation polymer is made, a small __________ like water or HCl is given off as well.