Höhermolekulare

Höhermolekulare is a German term that translates to "high molecular" or "high molecular weight." It describes substances composed of very large molecules, typically polymers. These molecules are formed by the repetition of smaller structural units, known as monomers, linked together by covalent bonds. The size of these macromolecules, and consequently their high molecular weight, gives them distinct physical and chemical properties compared to their smaller constituent monomers.

Polymers that fall under the category of "höhermolekulare" can be natural or synthetic. Examples of natural high molecular substances include proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), polysaccharides like starch and cellulose, and rubber. Synthetic high molecular substances are widely used in modern life and include plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and nylon, as well as synthetic rubbers and adhesives.

The properties of highermolekulare substances are strongly dependent on their molecular weight, the length of the polymer chains, and the way these chains are arranged. These properties include increased viscosity, higher melting and boiling points, greater mechanical strength, and often, insolubility in common solvents. The study of these substances is a significant area within chemistry, particularly in the field of polymer science, with broad applications in materials science, engineering, biology, and medicine.