ABSTRACT
Introduction In this chapter, we will attempt to explain dough physical properties and their variation at a fundamental level. In order to do this, it is preferable to take the most general approach. Many materials have properties that show similarity to those of dough; for example, many polymers have viscoelastic properties. Much research on the physical behavior of polymers has been carried out as a result of the great importance of these compounds in the huge plastics industry. The knowledge gained from polymer studies can therefore be directly applied to understand the behavior of dough. Some molecular properties-segmental motion, molecular weight distribution, entanglements, and glass transition temperature-are unique to polymers and it is helpful to keep these in mind as we consider dough properties.
