hochmolekulare

Hochmolekulare is a term used in chemistry and related disciplines to describe substances with high molecular weight, i.e., macromolecules. It encompasses both natural and synthetic macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, cellulose, starch, and polymers like polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyacrylates. The term is often contrasted with low-molecular-weight substances, referred to as kleinmolekulare.

The threshold for what counts as hochmolekular varies by context, but it typically refers to molecules with molecular weights in the thousands or higher. Macromolecules exhibit properties that arise from their long chain structures and intermolecular interactions, including chain entanglement, viscoelasticity, increased solution viscosity, and the ability to form gels or networks. Their behavior depends on molecular weight, architecture (linear, branched, crosslinked), concentration, and the surrounding environment.

Characterization of hochmolekulare substances relies on specialized techniques. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC or SEC) is commonly used to determine molecular weight distributions, while light-scattering methods measure weight-averaged molecular weights. Osmometry and intrinsic viscosity measurements provide additional information in appropriate ranges. In biology, macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids are analyzed by mass, size, and conformation, reflecting their biological function and structure.

In practice, the concept aids in understanding material properties relevant to processing and performance in polymer science, materials engineering, and biochemistry. The term Hochmolekulare Substanzen appears in German-language literature to denote macromolecular systems regardless of origin, emphasizing their large, chain-like nature.