Polymerization and the break down of a polymer are two opposite reactions. what role does a water molecule play in both of them?
a. a water molecule is released during polymerization, which in the formation of a bond, and it is added during the break down of a polymer, which in breaking the bond.
b. a water molecule is added during polymerization, which in the formation of a bond, and it is released during the break down of a polymer, which in breaking the bond.
c. a water molecule is added during polymerization, which in the formation of a bond, but it does not play any role during the breaking down of a polymer.

The correct answer is option (a). A water molecule is released during polymerization, which helps in the formation of a bond, and it is added during the break down of a polymer, which helps in breaking the bond.

Explanation:

The polymerization takes place between the amino group and the carboxylic group of two monomers. In this reaction, the carboxylic group loses OH and amine group loses H. This OH and H forms the water and released out. During the depolymerization process, the water molecule split in H and OH and get combined with the amino and the carboxylic group respectively, breaking the bond.

the element that provides strength to the exoskeletons of clams and oysters is phosphorus.

this is so because calcium carbonate is the main component in the shells. calcium carbonate is strengthened by phosphorus.

explanation: