What process describes the joining of molecules to form polymers?

The joining of molecules to form polymers is known as polymerization. This process involves the chemical reaction where small molecules called monomers link together to create long chains or networks of repeating units, which make up a polymer.

During polymerization, various conditions and catalysts can influence the way monomers combine. This can lead to the formation of different structures and properties within the resulting polymer, which can vary greatly depending on the type of monomer and the polymerization method used. Understanding polymerization is crucial in fields like painting and coatings because the properties of paints can significantly depend on the types of polymers used and their formation.

Other options are related to different processes: crosslinking typically refers to the process of linking polymer chains together to form a three-dimensional network, which can enhance strength and stability but is not the formation of the polymer itself. Degassing involves the removal of gas bubbles from a liquid, and reticulation refers to the formation of a network in materials, particularly related to the arrangement of polymers, but does not specifically describe the joining of molecules to create polymers.