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Statistical mechanics of double-helical polymers

Alvise De Col·Tanniemola B. Liverpool
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Abstract

We introduce a simple geometric model for a double-stranded and double-helical polymer. We study the statistical mechanics of such polymers using both analytical techniques and simulation. Our model has a single energy-scale which determines both the bending and twisting rigidity of the polymer. The helix melts at a particular temperature T_c below which the chain has a helical structure and above which this structure is disordered. Under extension we find that for small forces, the behaviour is very similar to worm-like chain behaviour but becomes very different at higher forces.

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Alvise De Col, Tanniemola B. Liverpool. 2002-03-27. Statistical mechanics of double-helical polymers. https://arxiv.org/abs/cond-mat/0203561

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