1 research outputs found
Potential of mean force and the charge reversal of rodlike polyions
A simple model is presented to calculate the potential of mean force between
a polyion and a multivalent counterion inside a polyelectrolite solution. We
find that under certain conditions the electrostatic interactions can lead to a
strong attraction between the polyions and the multivalent counterions,
favoring formation of overcharged polyion-counterion complexes. It is found
that small concentrations of salt enhance the overcharging, while an excessive
amount of salt hinders the charge reversal. The kinetic limitations to
overcharging are also examined.Comment: To be published in the special issue of Molecular Physics in honor of
Prof. Ben Wido