What characterizes a polymer in biological terms?

A polymer in biological terms is characterized as a large molecule formed by the bonding of smaller subunits, often referred to as monomers. This definition encompasses a range of biological polymers, such as proteins, nucleic acids (like DNA and RNA), and polysaccharides (such as starch and cellulose).

The bonding of these monomers occurs through various types of chemical reactions, such as condensation or dehydration synthesis, where water is released as a byproduct. For instance, amino acids, the monomers of proteins, link together via peptide bonds to form polypeptides, which then fold into functional proteins. Similarly, nucleotides come together to form nucleic acids through phosphodiester bonds.

This structural characteristic of polymers is essential for their function in biological systems, as their large size and complex structures allow them to carry out diverse roles, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, storing genetic information, and serving as structural components within cells.