Question detail
What distinguishes a polymer from a small molecule?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Chemical bonds, ionic, covalent and metallic
Question
- A. Polymers are made of repeating units.
- B. Polymers are always ionic compounds.
- C. Polymers have a fixed molecular formula.
- D. Polymers consist of only one type of atom.
Answer
The correct option is Polymers are made of repeating units.. This answer is correct because it matches the approved learning objective to distinguish small molecules, polymers and giant covalent structures from bonding diagrams in the subtopic Covalent bonding.
Explanation
The correct option is Polymers are made of repeating units.. Polymers are made of repeating units. is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to distinguish small molecules, polymers and giant covalent structures from bonding diagrams. This belongs to the subtopic Covalent bonding within Chemical bonds, ionic, covalent and metallic, so the explanation must stay tied to that curriculum context. The other options are incorrect because they either do not answer this learning objective, use a vague statement, or move away from Covalent bonding.
Common mistake
Confusing Molecular Types
Students often confuse small molecules with giant covalent structures, thinking they have similar properties.
To fix this, students should focus on the differences in bonding and structure: small molecules have weak intermolecular forces, while giant covalent structures have strong covalent bonds throughout.
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