---
title: "Definition of biodegradable polymer"
subject: "Engineering Chemistry"
chapter: 4
key: "semester_2/engineering_chemistry:biodegradable-definition"
source: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_2/engineering_chemistry/biodegradable-definition
site: BCT Engineering
---

# Definition of biodegradable polymer

Engineering Chemistry · Chapter 4: Engineering Polymers

- Asked in: 2071 Bhadra, 1 marks
- Video: [Biodegradable Polymer, Introduction to Biodegradable Polymer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI9OzYMfOiA) — vedupro
- Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort) on 2026-10-14
- Page: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_2/engineering_chemistry/biodegradable-definition
- Whole chapter: https://www.bctengineer.com/md/semester_2/engineering_chemistry/chapter-4

## Question

What is biodegradable polymer?

## Short answer

A biodegradable polymer is broken down by microorganisms and enzymes into CO2, water, and biomass. Examples include PHBV, polylactic acid, and nylon-2-nylon-6.

## Answer

A **biodegradable polymer** is a polymer that is broken down by microorganisms (bacteria, fungi) and enzymes into simple, harmless substances such as CO₂, water and biomass. Examples: PHBV, polylactic acid and nylon-2-nylon-6.

## Check yourself

The answer's key points as multiple-choice questions, with the correct option and why.

1. What is a biodegradable polymer?
   A. One broken down by microorganisms and enzymes into simple harmless substances
   B. One that never decomposes
   C. One made only from petroleum
   D. One that melts
   Answer: A. Microbes and enzymes degrade them to CO2, water and biomass. (Key point: Definition)

2. Which is a biodegradable polymer?
   A. PVC
   B. Polyethylene
   C. Polylactic acid
   D. Teflon
   Answer: C. PLA, PHBV and nylon-2-nylon-6 are biodegradable. (Key point: Examples)

3. What are the end products of biodegradation?
   A. CO2, water and biomass
   B. Dioxins
   C. HCl
   D. Microplastics
   Answer: A. These are simple harmless substances. (Key point: Products)

## Related in Engineering Chemistry

- [Biodegradable polymer; carbon reinforced polymers, chalcogenide glasses](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_2%2Fengineering_chemistry%3Abiodegradable-carbon-chalcogenide) — Engineering Chemistry, chapter 4