Which property is commonly associated with polymers?

Polymers are materials made up of long chains of repeating molecular units, which contribute to various unique properties. One of the most notable characteristics of polymers is their high elasticity. This means that polymers can stretch and return to their original shape without permanent deformation, which is attributed to their flexible molecular structure. The long chains can move relative to one another, allowing the material to absorb stress and deform under load.

This high elasticity is especially advantageous in several applications, from rubber products to flexible plastics, where the ability to withstand deformation without breaking is crucial. In engineering and materials science, this property makes polymers suitable for a wide variety of applications, including seals, gaskets, and flexible components in mechanical systems.

In contrast, polymers generally do not exhibit high thermal conductivity, which is another distinct property of metals or certain ceramics. They can also be reactive under certain conditions, particularly when exposed to heat or certain chemicals, so non-reactivity isn’t a universal trait of polymers. Additionally, polymers can vary widely in mechanical strength, with some being very strong while others are relatively weak, making low mechanical strength not a defining characteristic for the entire class of materials.