POLYMETHYLENE Meaning and
Definition
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Polymethylene is a term used in organic chemistry to refer to a group of polymers composed solely of methylene repeating units (-CH2-). It is a saturated hydrocarbon polymer that does not contain any other functional groups.
The term "polymethylene" is derived from the combination of the words "poly," meaning many or multiple, and "methylene," which refers to a methylene group (-CH2-). In these polymers, a series of methylene units are linked together through covalent bonds, forming a long chain-like structure.
Polymethylene is a highly versatile polymer due to its chemical stability and flexibility. It is commonly used in various applications, including as a filler or reinforcing agent in plastics, adhesives, and coatings. Its exceptional strength and durability make it suitable for engineering purposes, such as in the production of automotive parts, pipes, and construction materials.
The length of the polymethylene chain can vary, leading to different physical and chemical properties. Shorter chains tend to have lower molecular weights, making them more fluid and easily moldable, while longer chains result in higher molecular weights, leading to higher melting points and increased rigidity.
Overall, polymethylene is a fundamental building block in polymer chemistry and plays a crucial role in the development of a wide range of materials. Its simple and repetitive structure allows for the creation of diverse polymers with distinct characteristics, making it an essential component in numerous industrial and technological applications.
Common Misspellings for POLYMETHYLENE
- oolymethylene
- lolymethylene
- 0olymethylene
- pilymethylene
- pklymethylene
- pllymethylene
- pplymethylene
- p0lymethylene
- p9lymethylene
- pokymethylene
- popymethylene
- pooymethylene
- poltmethylene
- polgmethylene
- polhmethylene
- polumethylene
- pol7methylene
- pol6methylene
- polynethylene
- polykethylene
Etymology of POLYMETHYLENE
The word "polymethylene" is derived from two Greek terms: "poly", which means "many", and "methylene", which refers to a compound consisting of two hydrogen atoms bonded to a carbon atom. The prefix "poly" indicates that the compound is made up of multiple repeating units of the methylene group. Therefore, polymethylene refers to a polymer chain composed of many methylene groups joined together.
