ANSWER
Differences between Oligomerization and Polymerization
| Oligomerization | Polymerization | |
| Process | The process of converting a monomer or a mixture of monomers into oligomers (Zhou, 2013). | Transition of low molecular weight constitutes (monomers) into high molecular weight constitutes (polymers) via a chemical reaction (Zhou, 2013). |
| Substances involved | Oligomer: A substance composed of molecules containing a few of one or more species of atoms or groups of atoms (constitutional units) repetitively linked to each other. The physical properties of oligomers vary with the addition or removal of one or a few of the constitutional units from its molecules (Zhou, 2013). | Polymer: A substance composed of molecules characterized by the multiple repetition of one or more species of atoms or groups of atoms linked to each other in amounts sufficient to provide a set of properties that do not vary markedly with the addition or removal of one or a few of the constitutional units (Zhou, 2013). |
| Physical Property | Varies with the addition or removal of one or a few of the constitutional units from its molecules. | Does not vary markedly with the addition or removal of one or a few of the constitutional units. |
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References
Rana, F. (2011). Creating Life in the Lab: How New Discoveries in Synthetic Biology make a case for the creator. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Books.
Zhou, Y. (2013). List of Standard Abbreviations (Symbols) for Synthetic Polymers and Polymer. Kent: Elsevier Science.
