What type of polymer is cellulose classified as?

Cellulose is classified as a natural polymer because it is a biopolymer derived from living organisms, specifically from the cell walls of plants. Natural polymers are large molecules formed by the polymerization of naturally occurring monomers. In cellulose, glucose units are linked together through β-1,4-glycosidic bonds, creating long, straight chains that are crucial for providing structural support in plants.

The distinction of cellulose as a natural polymer underscores its origins and properties, which differ significantly from synthetic polymers that are artificially created through chemical processes, such as nylon or polyethylene. Composite polymers usually involve a combination of materials to achieve specific properties, while metallic polymers typically involve the combination of polymers with metal components, none of which apply to cellulose.