polymerization

[ puh-lim-er-uh-zey-shuhn, pol-uh-mer- ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. the act or process of forming a polymer or polymeric compound.
2. the combination of many like or unlike molecules to form a more complex product of higher molecular weight, with elimination of water, alcohol, or the like condensation polymerization, or without such elimination addition polymerization.
3. the conversion of one compound into another by such a process.

polymerization

/ ˌpɒlɪməraɪ-; pəˌlɪməraɪˈzeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of forming a polymer or copolymer, esp a chemical reaction in which a polymer is formed

Word History and Origins

Origin of polymerization¹

First recorded in 1875–80; polymerize + -ation

Example Sentences

Hyman and his colleagues have proposed that phase separation could be a general way for cells to initiate the polymerization of microtubules and the formation of the mitotic spindle.

From Quanta Magazine

On a hunch I dropped in an aluminum alkyl, and then pushed the polymerization along with both ultraviolet and heat.

From Project Gutenberg

Oxidation, dehydration and polymerization have all been suggested, but there is little direct evidence.

From Project Gutenberg

Similar considerations as to the formation and breaking up of the molecules in anabolism and catabolism apply to polymerization.

From Project Gutenberg

Possibly the different forms of matter may be due to a single cause--polymerization.

From Project Gutenberg

The glucose formed, it is admissible that a new polymerization with elimination of water produces starch.

From Project Gutenberg