Metals vs. Polymers — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on November 2, 2023
Metals are elements with high electrical conductivity, while polymers are long chains of repeating molecular units.
Difference Between Metals and Polymers
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Metals are characterized by their ability to conduct heat and electricity, owing to free-moving electrons. Polymers, however, are insulators and do not conduct electricity well because they lack free electrons. Metals can be polished to a shine, indicative of their ability to reflect light, while polymers are usually not reflective and can be transparent or opaque.
Polymers are typically organic, composed of long chains of covalently bonded carbon-based molecules. Metals are elemental, composed of one or more metallic elements and exhibit metallic bonding. Metals can undergo plastic deformation, allowing them to be forged into different shapes without breaking. Polymers can also be molded, but they do so by heating until they become pliable.
In durability, metals are generally strong and resistant to impact, but they can corrode over time. Polymers are less prone to corrosion but can degrade with exposure to UV light or chemicals. Metals are generally denser and heavier than polymers. In contrast, polymers are lighter and can float in water depending on their density.
Metals have a high melting point due to strong metallic bonds, making them suitable for high-temperature applications. Polymers have lower melting points and can melt or soften easily upon heating. Metals are recyclable and can be melted down and reformed, while polymers can be recycled, but the process can be more complex due to their various types.
Comparison Chart
Conductivity
High electrical conductivity.
Poor electrical conductivity.
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Composition
Elemental, metallic bonds.
Organic, covalent bonds.
Physical Properties
Reflective, high melting point.
Non-reflective, lower melting point.
Durability and Strength
High strength, prone to corrosion.
Less strong, resistant to corrosion.
Density
Generally high density.
Generally low density.
Compare with Definitions
Metals
Materials that are typically hard, opaque, and shiny.
The jeweler crafted a beautiful ring from precious metals.
Polymers
Substances with a molecular structure consisting of a large number of similar units.
Polyethylene is one of the most common polymers used in packaging.
Metals
Substances with a characteristic lustrous appearance.
The bridge was constructed with reinforced steel, a very strong metal.
Polymers
Large molecules composed of many repeated subunits.
Nylon, a synthetic polymer, is used for making ropes and clothing.
Metals
Malleable and ductile elements.
The artist molded the metal into a beautiful sculpture.
Polymers
Materials made up of long, repeating chains of monomers.
The polymers in the plastic bottle make it durable and flexible.
Metals
Elements that form positive ions and have metallic bonds.
Aluminum is a lightweight metal used in aircraft design.
Polymers
Materials that can be molded into different shapes.
The versatility of polymers makes them ideal for use in a variety of products.
Metals
Any of a category of electropositive elements that usually have a shiny surface, are generally good conductors of heat and electricity, and can be melted or fused, hammered into thin sheets, or drawn into wires. Typical metals form salts with nonmetals, basic oxides with oxygen, and alloys with one another.
Polymers
A class of natural or synthetic substances composed of macromolecules.
Silicone polymers are used in medical devices because they're biocompatible.
Metals
An alloy of two or more metallic elements.
Polymers
Any of numerous natural and synthetic compounds of usually high molecular weight consisting of up to millions of repeated linked units, each a relatively light and simple molecule.
Metals
An object made of metal.
Polymers
Plural of polymer
Metals
Basic character; mettle.
Metals
Broken stones used for road surfaces or railroad beds.
Metals
Molten glass, especially when used in glassmaking.
Metals
Molten cast iron.
Metals
(Printing) Type made of metal.
Metals
(Music) Heavy metal.
Metals
To cover or surface (a roadbed, for example) with broken stones.
Metals
Plural of metal
Metals
(rail transport) the rail tracks owned by a company or organisation; a rail network
It was appropriate that 'King' number 6000 began the return to steam on British Rail metals in 1971.
Metals
Elements that are good conductors of heat and electricity.
Copper is one of the most used metals for electrical wiring.
Common Curiosities
Why are metals typically heavier than polymers?
Metals are denser, meaning they have more mass per volume than polymers.
Are all polymers plastic?
While all plastics are polymers, not all polymers are plastics; some, like DNA, are natural.
How are polymers made?
Polymers are made through polymerization, where monomers are chemically bonded into long chains.
Can metals be transparent?
Metals are not transparent; they are opaque and reflective.
How do the strengths of metals and polymers compare?
Metals are generally stronger and more durable than polymers.
Can polymers conduct electricity?
Most polymers are poor conductors, but some conductive polymers are used in electronic applications.
Are polymers environmentally friendly?
Some polymers are not biodegradable, but biopolymers and proper recycling methods can mitigate environmental impact.
Why do metals corrode?
Metals corrode due to chemical reactions with their environment, such as oxidation.
What are the most common uses for metals?
Metals are commonly used in construction, electronics, and transportation due to their strength and conductivity.
Do metals have a high melting point?
Most metals have high melting points, making them suitable for high-temperature applications.
Are metals renewable?
Metals are not renewable, but they are recyclable.
Can polymers be used in construction?
Yes, polymers like PVC are used in construction for piping and other materials.
Can polymers be natural?
Yes, there are natural polymers like cellulose and rubber.
Are metals flexible?
Metals can be flexible to an extent but are less flexible than many polymers.
Is it possible to mix metals and polymers?
Yes, composites can be made by combining metals and polymers for specific applications.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
