What are short-chain polymers?

Short-chain polymers refer to polymers consisting of relatively few repeating units or monomers. This characteristic distinguishes them from their long-chain counterparts, which can have a greater number of monomeric units strung together. The phrase "strings of repeating molecular units" captures the essence of what polymers are: they are large molecules formed by the linkage of smaller units repetitively, which is the fundamental definition of polymers.

In the context of the other options, long strands of bonded monomers describe long-chain polymers, making this description incorrect. The assertion that polymers are molecules that cannot form chains contradicts the very definition of what a polymer is, as it encompasses the ability to form chains of repeating units. Lastly, while inert substances may play a role in some bonding applications, they do not define what short-chain polymers are. Therefore, the correct focus on short-chain polymers as "strings of repeating molecular units" is accurate and reflects their fundamental chemical structure.