Definitions
- Referring to a large molecule made up of many smaller subunits. - Talking about complex molecules that are essential to life, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. - Describing the structure and function of biological molecules that play a crucial role in living organisms.
- Referring to a type of macromolecule that is made up of repeating subunits called monomers. - Talking about synthetic or natural materials that have a long chain-like structure. - Describing the properties and applications of polymers in various fields, such as chemistry, materials science, and engineering.
List of Similarities
- 1Both macromolecule and polymer refer to large molecules.
- 2Both are composed of smaller subunits.
- 3Both are important in various scientific fields, such as biochemistry and materials science.
- 4Both have applications in industry and technology.
- 5Both are essential to life and the functioning of living organisms.
What is the difference?
- 1Composition: Macromolecules can be made up of different types of subunits, while polymers are specifically composed of repeating monomers.
- 2Function: Macromolecules have diverse functions in living organisms, while polymers have a wide range of applications in industry and technology.
- 3Scope: Macromolecules is a broader term that encompasses various types of large molecules, while polymers specifically refers to a type of macromolecule.
- 4Complexity: Macromolecules can be more complex and diverse than polymers, which have a simpler repeating structure.
Remember this!
Macromolecule and polymer are both large molecules that are important in various scientific fields and have applications in industry and technology. However, macromolecule is a broader term that refers to complex molecules found in living organisms, while polymer specifically refers to a type of macromolecule composed of repeating subunits. Macromolecules can be naturally occurring or synthetic, while polymers are typically synthetic or semi-synthetic.
