A polymer is simply large molecule (sometimes known as a “macromolecule”) consisting of a chain of repeating structural units known as monomers. These monomers are typically made of atoms connected by covalent bonds. While many of the most common polymers are plastics, polymers also include several other natural and synthetic materials. Polymers have an amazing range of possible uses and are thus present in many of the products found in a typical household. Most polymers consist of a carbon backbone, yet this chain-like class of chemicals also includes structures based on other elements, such as silicon.