1. Polymers are high molecular weight organic compounds formed by linking together smaller molecules called monomers. Wood, adhesives, and plastics are all examples of polymers. 2. Understanding the interactions between polymers like wood and adhesives requires studying how monomers join together into long chains or networks through processes like addition and condensation reactions. 3. Important wood polymers include cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which all undergo degradation when exposed to weathering from light, water, and heat over time. This affects the wood's physical, chemical, and visual properties.