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linear polymer
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Figure 1: Three common polymer structures. The linear, branched, and network architectures are represented (from top), respectively, by high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and phenol formaldehyde (PF). The chemical structure and molecular structure of highlighted regions are also shown.
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linear polymer

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Figure 1: Three common polymer structures. The linear, branched, and network architectures are represented (from top), respectively, by high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and phenol formaldehyde (PF). The chemical structure and molecular structure of highlighted regions are also shown.
Figure 1: Three common polymer structures. The linear, branched, and network architectures are represented (from top), respectively, by high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and phenol formaldehyde (PF). The chemical structure and molecular structure of highlighted regions are also shown.

A linear polymer is a type of macromolecule formed by the chemical combination of smaller units called monomers. These monomers link together end-to-end, creating a chain-like structure. This contrasts with branched polymers, where shorter chains grow off the main chain, and network polymers, where branches cross-link to form a complex, interconnected structure.12

Linear polymers, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are characterized by their ability to pack closely together due to intermolecular forces. This close packing contributes to their properties, making them suitable for various applications like bottles and toys. Unlike network polymers, linear polymers can soften and melt when heated, and they can dissolve in certain solvents, which makes them particularly useful for forming into fibers.132

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4 Britannica Sources
  1. chemistry of industrial polymers - Linear, branched, and network
  2. polymerization
  3. polymer
  4. man-made fibre - Linear, branched, and network polymers

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