What is the Difference Between Polymer and Copolymer?

The main difference between a polymer and a copolymer lies in the types of monomers used to create them.

• Polymer: A polymer is a large molecule composed of repeating structural units connected by covalent bonds. It is formed from a single type of monomer, which can be made from the same or different species. Examples of polymers include PVC, polyethylene, and polypropylene.
• Copolymer: A copolymer is a polymer made from more than one kind of monomer. Copolymers can be further classified into different types based on the arrangement of monomers, such as alternating copolymers, block copolymers, random copolymers, and branched copolymers. Copolymers are formed by copolymerization, which is the process of combining two or more monomer species . Copolymers may also be used in application domains such as synthetic films, paint protection, and electrical and optical components.

In summary, a polymer is made from a single type of monomer, while a copolymer is made from multiple types of monomers. The choice of monomers and their arrangement in the polymer structure determines the properties and applications of the resulting polymer or copolymer.

Comparative Table: Polymer vs Copolymer

The main difference between a polymer and a copolymer is the type of monomers used to form the macromolecule. Here is a table comparing the differences between polymers and copolymers:

Polymers are large molecules composed of repeating units called monomers, which are linked via covalent bonds. Copolymers, on the other hand, are a type of polymer made from multiple different types of monomers. The arrangement of monomers in copolymers can vary, resulting in a wide range of mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties.