Do Inorganic Macromolecules Exist?

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SUMMARY

Inorganic macromolecules are generally not recognized as existing within the established definitions of chemistry, which classify compounds based on the presence of carbon-hydrogen bonds. While most inorganic compounds lack these bonds, exceptions such as graphite and diamond are classified as inorganic macromolecules. The classification system for chemical compounds is rooted in historical definitions that may not reflect modern understanding. For further information, refer to resources like the Wikipedia page on inorganic polymers and Scientific American articles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inorganic chemistry principles
  • Familiarity with macromolecular structures
  • Knowledge of carbon-hydrogen bond significance
  • Awareness of historical context in chemical classification
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  • Research the properties of inorganic polymers
  • Explore the applications of graphite and diamond in materials science
  • Study the historical evolution of chemical classification systems
  • Investigate the role of carbon in organic versus inorganic chemistry
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Chemists, materials scientists, and students interested in the distinctions between organic and inorganic compounds, as well as those exploring the applications of inorganic macromolecules.

lainthewired14
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Hii!! I would like to know if all macromolecules are considered organic, since I've been trying to search for the inorganic ones but nothing came up. A few examples were given such as rubber, polypropylene and polyethylene, which are synthetic and do contain carbon. It has led me to believe the term "inorganic" is not being used as it is, and it's actually referring to the synthetic macromolecules. I would be really grateful if someone could explain this to me. Thank you and sorry for my English!!
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Inorganic is a definition. That means there can be loopholes (the red part) in accepted usage:

An inorganic compound is most usually chemical compound that lacks carbon–hydrogen bonds, that is, a compound that is not an organic compound. Some simple compounds that contain carbon and no hydrogen bonds are often considered inorganic.

Why? This is because a lot of chemistry foundations are old. Like 1800's and earlier. Some names and classifications are like that, arbitrary, so do not read too much into it.

So your answer is mostly no -inorganic macromolecules do not exist, or at least they are not called that.
Exception: graphite and diamond = inorganic macromolecules.
 
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