Question

which of the following describes a covalent polymer?
a long chain of repeating units connected by covalent bonds
a lattice of atoms connected by covalent bonds that form one giant molecule
a substance composed of both metal and nonmetal ions held together by electrostatic attractions
a lattice of neutral atoms that hold their outer electrons very loosely

Explanation:

Define a polymer

A polymer is a large molecule composed of many repeating subunits (monomers).

Analyze the bonding

In a covalent polymer, these repeating monomer units are linked together by covalent bonds.

Evaluate the options

• "a long chain of repeating units connected by covalent bonds" matches the definition of a polymer.
• "a lattice of atoms connected by covalent bonds..." describes a covalent network solid (like diamond).
• "a substance composed of both metal and nonmetal ions..." describes an ionic compound.
• "a lattice of neutral atoms that hold their outer electrons very loosely" describes metallic bonding.

Answer:

• (A) a long chain of repeating units connected by covalent bonds (Correct answer)
• (B) a lattice of atoms connected by covalent bonds that form one giant molecule
• (C) a substance composed of both metal and nonmetal ions held together by electrostatic attractions
• (D) a lattice of neutral atoms that hold their outer electrons very loosely