Macromolecules

• Large molecules built up from small units (monomers).

  
• Different macromolecules have different units and/or different linkages
• Small units (monomers): Glucose

  Linkages: Ester

  Macromolecules: Starch
• Small units (monomers): Amino acids

  Linkages: Amide

  Macromolecules: Protein
• Small units (monomers): Fatty acids and glycerol

  Macromolecules: Lipids
• Polythene use: Plastic bags and gloves, clingfilm (low density), mugs, bowls, chairs, dustbins (high density)

  
• Polychloroethane (PVC): Water pipes, wellingtons, hoses, covering for electricity cables

  
• Polypropene: Crates, ropes

  
• Polystyrene: Used as expanded polystyrene in fast-food cartons, packaging, and insulation for roofs and walls

  
• Teflon: Coated on frying pans to make them non-stick, fabric protector, windscreen wipers, flooring