Main chain

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-013252",
  "term": "Main chain",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The longest continuous sequence of covalently bonded atoms within a polymer molecule from which all other chains, branches, or substituents emanate. It forms the backbone of the polymer structure. The chemical composition and connectivity of the main chain largely determine the fundamental properties of the polymer.",
  "synonyms": [
    "backbone"
  ],
  "subject": "Polymer",
  "see_also": [
    "long chain",
    "linear chain",
    "short chain"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1996, 68, 2287. 'Glossary of basic terms in polymer science (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 2294 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668122287)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/main-chain/"
}