In Chemistry, many of the things we see around us—plastic bottles, rubber tyres, glass windows—are made from important materials that science has helped us create. Two such important concepts are Polymers and Glass. Understanding how they are formed and what they are used for gives students a strong foundation for higher studies and competitive exams like the NDA CDS 1 2026.
POLYMERS
🔹 What Are Polymers?
Polymers are large molecules made up of many small repeating units called monomers.
Examples: plastic, rubber, nylon, proteins, starch etc.
🔹 Subtopics
1. Definition of Polymers
- Meaning of polymer
- Origin of the word “poly” (many) and “mer” (unit)
2. Types of Polymers
- Natural Polymers: starch, cellulose, proteins, rubber
- Synthetic Polymers: plastic, nylon, polythene
3. Formation of Polymers (Polymerisation)
- Monomers join to form long chains
- Simple explanation of addition and condensation polymerisation (basic level)
4. Uses of Polymers
- Clothing (nylon, polyester)
- Packaging (polythene, plastic)
- Medical uses (special polymer fibres)
- Household items (buckets, bottles, ropes)
PREPARATION OF GLASS
🔹 What is Glass?
Glass is a hard, transparent material made when certain substances are heated and cooled.
Commonly found in windows, bottles, mirrors, and laboratory equipment.
🔹 Subtopics
1. Raw Materials Needed to Make Glass
- Sand (silica)
- Soda ash (sodium carbonate)
- Limestone (calcium carbonate)
2. Process of Making Glass
- The raw materials are heated in a furnace
- They melt and combine to form glass
- The molten glass is then cooled and shaped
3. Types of Glass
- Ordinary glass
- Coloured glass
- Safety glass
- Heat-resistant glass
4. Uses of Glass
- Windows, mirrors, bottles
- Laboratory beakers and test tubes
- Fibre optics in communication
Conclusion
Polymers and glass are essential materials that play a major role in everyday life. Knowing how polymers are formed and how glass is prepared helps us understand the chemistry behind common objects. These concepts build a strong base for higher studies and competitive exams.
