Optimal loading of molecular bonds.

Hess, Henry · Nano Lett · 2012

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

A corollary of the Bell equation of bond rupture is that the bond transfers a maximal impulse during its lifetime when the applied force equals k(B)T/x*. It is proposed that the designs of biological systems converge toward loading bonds with this optimal force to minimize the need for self-healing and to optimize energy transfer.

Medical subject headings