Copolymer

Definition

A copolymer is a type of polymer derived from two or more different monomer species, which are chemically bonded together to form a long molecular chain. These differing monomers are integrated into the polymer structure in various configurations such as alternating, random, or block arrangements.

Related terms

Monomer:

A small molecule that can chemically bind to other molecules to form a polymer.

Polymerization:

The chemical process by which monomers are combined to form a polymer.

Block copolymer: A specific type of copolymer where distinct blocks (sections) of one type of monomer are linked with blocks of another type, creating segments within the polymer chain