Statistical mechanics of double-helical polymers
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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.
4 pages, 6 figures
4 pages, 6 figures