Is 10 e/nm^2 a Realistic Surface Charge Density?

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SUMMARY

A surface charge density of 10 electrons per square nanometer is under consideration for a semi-quantitative simulation involving an electrolyte. The discussion highlights that while proteins can exhibit similar formal charges, achieving such a density results in an electric field of approximately 14 GV/m, which is deemed unrealistic. The presence of counter ions in the solution does mitigate total charge effects, but the feasibility of packing 10 electrons on the surface remains questionable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of surface charge density concepts
  • Familiarity with electrostatics in electrolyte solutions
  • Knowledge of protein charge characteristics
  • Basic principles of electric fields and their calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of surface charge density on electrostatic interactions
  • Explore the role of counter ions in stabilizing surface charges
  • Investigate the electric field calculations for charged surfaces
  • Examine case studies of proteins with high formal charges in similar environments
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Researchers in biophysics, chemists studying electrostatics, and simulation modelers interested in surface charge effects in electrolytic environments.

mzh
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Hey,
I'm running a semi-quantitative simulation and I have a surface charge densitiy of 10 electrons per square nanometer. Is this anything realistic? The surface is immersed in an electrolyte so the total charge is canceled by ions from the solution. But still, can I pack 10 e's on such a surface?

I know there are proteins with 10 formal charges which are on the same scale (of course also surrounded by counter ions).

Thanks for any feedback.
 
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