Styrene vs. Polystyrene — What's the Difference?

Styrene () is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H5CH=CH2. This derivative of benzene is a colorless oily liquid, although aged samples can appear yellowish.

Polystyrene (PS) is a synthetic aromatic hydrocarbon polymer made from the monomer known as styrene. Polystyrene can be solid or foamed.

A colorless oily liquid, C8H8, having a penetrating odor; the monomer for polystyrene.

A rigid clear thermoplastic polymer of styrene that can be molded into objects or made into a foam that is used as thermal insulation.

(chemistry) An aromatic hydrocarbon; a colourless, oily liquid, used in the manufacture of polymers such as polystyrene.

(organic chemistry) A vinylic polymer of styrene, CH₂CHphenyl.

A colorless oily liquid; the monomer for polystyrene

(organic chemistry) An alkane chain of benzene molecules, RCH₂CHphenylR.

A polymer of styrene; a rigid transparent thermoplastic;