A natural polymer is any type of natural substance that is composed of a long chain of repeating molecules linked together. The most common types of natural polymers are proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides. Proteins are large molecules found in all living cells and are composed of amino acids and are responsible for many of the body’s functions. Nucleic acids are the genetic material found in all cells, and polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates composed of many simple sugars that are found in plants and animals.
How Polymers are Formed
Polymers are formed when the long chain of molecules, known as monomers, are chemically bonded together. This process is known as polymerization. Monomers are small molecules that are joined to form polymers. Monomers can be either natural or synthetic. Natural monomers are usually derived from plant and animal sources, while synthetic monomers are usually synthesized in a laboratory.
Types of Natural Polymers
There are several types of natural polymers. Proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides are the most common natural polymers, but there are also many other types of natural polymers. Some of these include rubber, cellulose, lignin, collagen, elastin, and chitin. All of these polymers are derived from natural sources, such as plants and animals, and are used in a variety of applications.
Uses of Natural Polymers
Natural polymers have a wide range of uses. Proteins, for example, are used in the production of medicines, food additives, and even cosmetics. Nucleic acids are used in the study of genetics and gene therapy, and polysaccharides are used in food production and as a thickening agent in many foods. Additionally, natural polymers are also used in the production of biodegradable plastics, adhesives, and rubber products.
Advantages of Natural Polymers
The use of natural polymers offers several advantages over synthetic polymers. For one, natural polymers are biodegradable, meaning they can be broken down into their component parts and used as nutrients in the environment. Additionally, natural polymers are often more resistant to heat, light, and chemicals than their synthetic counterparts. Finally, natural polymers are often more cost-effective than synthetic polymers, making them a popular choice for many industries.
Disadvantages of Natural Polymers
Unfortunately, there are also some disadvantages associated with natural polymers. For example, natural polymers are often not as strong or durable as synthetic polymers. Additionally, natural polymers can be more expensive to produce than synthetic polymers, making them less cost-effective. Finally, natural polymers can be more difficult to process than synthetic polymers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, natural polymers are any type of natural substance composed of a long chain of repeating molecules linked together. Natural polymers have a wide range of uses, from medicine and cosmetics to food production and plastics. While natural polymers are biodegradable and often more cost-effective than their synthetic counterparts, they can also be weaker and more expensive to produce. For these reasons, it is important to consider the pros and cons of natural polymers when deciding which type of polymer to use.
