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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Oligomer and Polymer?

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The main difference between an oligomer and a polymer lies in the number of monomers they contain. Both oligomers and polymers are complex molecules made up of small units called monomers that are linked together via covalent bonds.

  • Oligomer: An oligomer is a polymeric material that contains a few numbers of repeating units (monomers). The number of monomers in an oligomer is typically smaller than that in a polymer, and the process of forming an oligomer is sometimes referred to as oligomerization. Oligomers have lower molecular masses and densities compared to polymers.
  • Polymer: A polymer is a macromolecule containing a large number of repeating units (monomers). Polymers can have up to 10,000 or more repeating units. They have higher molecular masses and densities compared to oligomers.

In summary, the key difference between an oligomer and a polymer is that oligomers form when few monomers undergo polymerization, while polymers are large macromolecules that contain a large number of repeating units.

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  • What is the Difference Between Oligomer and Polymer?
  • Comparative Table: Oligomer vs Polymer

    • Comparative Table: Oligomer vs Polymer

    The main difference between oligomers and polymers is the number of monomers involved in their formation. Here is a table comparing the two:

    Feature Oligomer Polymer
    Definition An oligomer is a complex molecule made out of a few monomer units, typically under ten. A polymer is a large macromolecule made out of a large number of repeating units called monomers.
    Formation Oligomers are formed when a few number of monomers are linked together via covalent bonds. Polymers are formed when many monomers are linked together via covalent bonds.
    Structure Oligomers can form linear chains like polymers, but due to their shortened size, they can also exhibit more complex three-dimensional configurations. Polymers can have various structures, including linear chains, branched chains, and cross-linked networks.
    Properties Oligomers have lower molecular weights compared to polymers since they are made up of only a few repeating units. Polymers have higher molecular weights compared to oligomers since they are made up of many repeating units.
    Applications Oligomers are used in various industries, including coatings, plastics, and personal care products. Polymers are used in a wide range of applications, such as packaging, textiles, and electronics.

    Both oligomers and polymers are polymeric structures made up of monomers, but they differ in the number of monomers involved in their formation and their resulting structures and properties.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.