Define the term 'polymer' and then name two examples of naturally occurring polymers.

http://www.google.com/search?q=define%3Apolymer&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

http://pslc.ws/macrog/natupoly.htm

http://pslc.ws/macrog/kidsmac/natural.htm

a polymer is a molecule with repeating units usually joined with covalent chemical bonds.

2 examples of naturally occurring polymers are proteins & starches.

A polymer molecule is one that is made of repeated segments . The repeated segments are smaller molecules (or major parts of them) that are identical, or combinations of two kinds of molecules that become parts of the repeated unit.

Examples that occur naturally are DNA, proteins, cellulose, quartz, diamond, asbestos and mica.

Note:

I neglected to say that there are several hundred or thousands repeated units that make up the giant polymer molecules.

A polymer is a large molecule composed of repeating subunits called monomers. These monomers are chemically bonded together to form a longer chain-like structure. Polymers can vary in size, shape, and properties depending on the type and arrangement of monomers. They are found in various materials and have a wide range of applications, such as plastics, fibers, rubber, and adhesives.

Two examples of naturally occurring polymers are:

1. Proteins: Proteins are complex and crucial macromolecules found in living organisms. They are built from amino acid monomers linked together through peptide bonds. Proteins have diverse functions in the body, including enzyme catalysis, structural support, transport, and immunity. Examples of naturally occurring proteins include collagen, found in skin, bones, and connective tissues, and hemoglobin, present in red blood cells.

2. Cellulose: Cellulose is a structural polysaccharide and the main component of plant cell walls. It consists of chains of glucose monomers linked together via beta glycosidic bonds. Cellulose provides strength and rigidity to plant cells, allowing them to maintain their shape. Additionally, cellulose is an essential dietary fiber and an important renewable resource.