The whole or part of a macromolecule, an oligomer molecule or a block, comprising a linear or branched sequence of constitutional units between two boundary constitutional units, each of which may be either an end-group, a branch point or an otherwise-designated characteristic feature of the macromolecule.
Notes: - Except in linear single-strand macromolecules, the definition of a chain may be somewhat arbitrary.
- A cyclic macromolecule has no end groups but may nevertheless be regarded as a chain.
- Any number of branch points may be present between the boundary units.
- Where appropriate, definitions relating to 'macromolecule' may also be applied to 'chain'.
Source:
PAC, 1996, 68, 2287. 'Glossary of basic terms in polymer science (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 2293 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668122287)