Definition

A process in chemistry where small molecules called monomers join together to form a larger molecule known as a polymer.

Example

The polymerization of the monomers resulted in a strong and flexible material.

Conversation

I was reading about polymerization in my chemistry book today.

Oh really? That sounds interesting!

Yeah, it's fascinating how different materials are made through polymerization.

Totally! It makes you appreciate everyday products even more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polymerization → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "meros" (meaning part) combined with "-ization" (a suffix indicating a process). The word describes the process of combining many parts into a larger whole, specifically in the context of chemistry where small molecules (monomers) join to form a polymer.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') parts ('meros') coming together in a process ('-ization') to form something larger, like a chain of molecules.

Visually Confused Words