What characterizes a polymer?

A polymer is characterized as a large molecule composed of repeating structural units known as monomers. These monomers are chemically bonded together in long chains, creating the extensive structure that defines polymers. This characteristic is fundamental to the nature of polymers, as the properties and behavior of these materials can vary significantly based on the types of monomers used and how they are linked together.

The other descriptions do not accurately define polymers. A colorless gas with a sharp odor refers to substances like certain gases or volatile compounds, which are not polymers. A solid containing short-chain polymers describes a specific form or state of a material but does not capture the overarching definition of polymers. Fast-acting adhesive may involve polymers, but it is a specific application or use case of polymer materials rather than a characterization of what a polymer is.