What is the structure of a polymer?

The structure of a polymer is best described as large molecules formed from smaller ones. Polymers are made up of repeated subunits called monomers that are chemically bonded together to form long chains. This chain-like structure gives polymers unique physical properties such as flexibility, durability, and resistance to various environmental factors.

In contrast, a single small molecule does not meet the definition of a polymer since it lacks the repetitive structure that characterizes polymers. The choice related to a dose of chemical injected into water does not pertain to the structure of polymers but rather describes a specific action in chemical processes, and the mention of a type of acid used in water treatment refers to a completely different category of substances that do not include polymers. Thus, the understanding of polymers as large molecules formed from smaller building blocks is essential for grasping their significance in various applications, ranging from plastics to biological materials.