A monomer is a small molecule that can chemically bind to other monomers to form a polymer, which is a larger, more complex structure used in various biological and synthetic processes. Understanding monomers is crucial for fields like polymer chemistry and biochemistry, as they are the building blocks for materials ranging from plastics to proteins.
Biomaterials are substances that have been engineered to interact with biological systems for medical purposes, such as in the creation of prosthetics, implants, and tissue engineering. They are designed to be biocompatible, meaning they can perform their desired function without eliciting an adverse reaction from the body.
Macromolecular size refers to the dimensions or molecular weight of large molecules, which significantly influence their physical and chemical properties, such as solubility, viscosity, and biological activity. Understanding macromolecular size is crucial for applications in fields like polymer science, biochemistry, and pharmaceuticals, where it affects the functionality and performance of macromolecules in various environments.
Hemicellulose is a heterogeneous polysaccharide found in plant cell walls, where it binds with cellulose and lignin to provide structural support and flexibility. Unlike cellulose, hemicellulose has a branched structure and is composed of various sugar monomers, making it less rigid and more easily hydrolyzed by enzymes.
Polylactic Acid, or PLA, is a special kind of plastic made from plants like corn and sugarcane, which means it's better for the Earth because it can break down naturally. People use it to make things like cups and toys because it's safe and doesn't hurt the environment as much as regular plastic.
PHA is a special kind of plastic that can break down in nature without hurting the environment. It is made by tiny living things called bacteria and is used to make things like spoons and forks that we use once and throw away.