What is defined as a molecule that can bond to identical molecules to form a polymer?

A monomer is defined as a molecule that can bond to identical molecules to form a polymer. Monomers serve as the basic building blocks for polymers, which are larger structures composed of repeating units of monomers linked together through chemical bonds. This process of linking multiple monomers together is known as polymerization.

In the context of eyelash extensions and cosmetic chemistry, understanding this relationship between monomers and polymers is crucial. Many products used in the beauty industry, such as adhesives for eyelash extensions, rely on polymers that are created from various monomers. By knowing how monomers can combine to form complex structures, professionals in the field can better understand the properties and performance of the materials they use.

Polymers themselves are the larger, complex molecules formed from the repeating units of monomers, while oligomers consist of a few monomer units, typically less than 10. A chain reactor is an apparatus used in industrial chemistry for synthesizing polymers, but it doesn't define the molecular unit itself. Therefore, understanding these definitions is key for professionals to effectively utilize materials pertaining to eyelash extensions and their applications.