Which statement best explains why connecting paper clips is a common way to model a polymer in chemistry?

• A. The color of paper clips helps identify different types of functional groups in polymers.
• B. Each paper clip represents a monomer, and linking them together simulates the formation of a polymer chain.
• C. Paper clips can be easily dissolved in water, just like most polymers.
• D. Paper clips are made of metal, which is similar to the composition of most polymers.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a polymer: A polymer is a large molecule made up of repeating smaller units called monomers linked together in a chain.
2. Recognize that modeling polymers often involves representing monomers and their connections to visualize how polymers form.
3. Identify that each paper clip in the model represents a monomer unit, and linking paper clips together simulates the process of monomers joining to form a polymer chain.
4. Note that the color of paper clips or their material composition (metal) does not relate to the chemical nature of polymers or their functional groups.
5. Conclude that the best explanation is that paper clips serve as a simple, physical analogy for monomers connected to form polymers, helping to visualize polymer structure.