Final answer:
Polymers can be broken down into two new molecules through hydrolysis. This process involves the insertion of a water molecule across the bond, breaking the covalent bond between the monomers in the polymer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polymers can be broken down into two new molecules through a process called hydrolysis. During hydrolysis, the polymer is broken into two components: one part gains a hydrogen atom (H+) and the other gains a hydroxyl molecule (OH-) from a split water molecule. This reaction involves the insertion of a water molecule across the bond, breaking the covalent bond between the monomers in the polymer.