Pronunciation: [mˈɒnə͡ʊmə] (IPA) 
The word "monomer" is commonly used in chemistry to refer to a molecule that can be bonded to other identical molecules to form a polymer. Its spelling is based on its Greek roots. The prefix "mono-" means "single" and "-mer" means "part". Therefore, "monomer" literally means "single part". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈmɒnəmər/ with stress on the first syllable and the "o" sound pronounced as in "hot".
A monomer is a fundamental unit or building block that, when combined with other monomers, forms a polymer through a chemical reaction called polymerization. The term "monomer" stems from the Greek words "mono" meaning "one" and "meros" meaning "part," emphasizing the singular nature of this molecule.
Chemically, a monomer is typically a small organic molecule characterized by its ability to bond to other monomers through specific functional groups. These functional groups, such as hydroxyl or amino groups, enable monomers to undergo various reactions, including condensation or addition reactions, leading to the formation of polymers.
A monomer has the capability to repeat its structure multiple times to form long chains, which are the hallmark of polymers. During polymerization, monomers bond together, often by the removal or addition of small molecules like water or hydrogen, creating strong covalent bonds between adjacent monomers. Once formed, polymers possess unique properties and characteristics that are distinct from their constituent monomers.
Monomers are widely utilized in many areas of science and industry. For instance, in chemistry, monomers serve as precursors for the synthesis of polymers through various polymerization processes. In biology, monomers are essential components of macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates.
Overall, a monomer is the individual unit that combines with other monomers to form the larger, more complex structure of a polymer, playing a crucial role in the creation of diverse materials and substances found in nature and human-made products.
The word monomer is derived from the Greek roots mono- meaning single and -meros meaning part or unit. Therefore, monomer literally translates to single part or single unit.
