Summary 5.1

Most carbon-based molecules are classified as organic molecules, non carbon based molecules are known as inorganic molecules. Organic molecules that are composed of only carbon and hydrogen are hydrocarbons. A group of atoms within molecule that interacts in predictable ways with other molecules is called a functional group. Hydrophilic is a property that attracts water molecules. Smaller molecular groups are known as monomers. Cells link monomers together into long chains called polymers. Everytime a monomer is added to a chain, a water molecule is released and it is known as a dehydration reaction.

Images:
http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/plastic-6.gif
(Condensation Reaction)
http://www.keymodule.co.uk/images/SPROUT-LeadOpt-mono-rep.bmp
(Monomer Replacement)

For More Information:
http://www.materialsworldmodules.org/resources/polimarization/2-polymers+monomers.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monomer

Concept Check:
Draw a molecule that has a three-carbon skeleton and a hydroxyl group on the middle carbon.
(The molecule's formula is C3H80)









Explain the connection between monomers and polymers.
Monomers are small molecular units and polymers are the chain that links them.
What molecule is released during construction of a polymer? What is this reaction called?
The molecule that is released during construction of a polymer is a water molecule, and the reaction is known as dehydration reaction.
Draw at least three ways in which five carbon atoms could be joined to make different carbon skeletons.