# Explain why DNA and proteins are described as naturally occurring polymers. Include in your answer the names of the monomers that make up each of these molecules.

> AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462) — 4.7.3 Synthetic and naturally occurring polymers (Chem only) · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. DNA / proteins are polymers because they are large long-chain molecules made from many smaller monomers joined together
2. The monomers that make up DNA are nucleotides
3. The monomers that make up proteins are amino acids
4. They are naturally occurring because they are produced by living organisms (not synthesised / manufactured by humans)

## Key terms

- [polymers](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/polymers)
- [monomers](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/monomers)
- [DNA](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/dna)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-dna-and-proteins-are-c1da5b8b) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.