What Does it Mean to be Singly Ionized? - Spring Constant of DNA

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the spring constant of a DNA molecule that becomes singly ionized, with one end acquiring a negative charge and the other a positive charge. The DNA molecule measures 2.17 micrometers in length and compresses by 1.00% upon ionization. The interpretation of "singly ionized" is confirmed as each end of the DNA molecule acquiring opposite charges equivalent to the elementary charge. The spring constant can be calculated using the formula for spring compression in relation to the applied force due to the charges.

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  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically Hooke's Law.
  • Knowledge of molecular biology, particularly DNA structure and properties.
  • Familiarity with electrostatics, including charge interactions.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving micrometers and percentages.
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  • Calculate the spring constant using Hooke's Law for the given DNA parameters.
  • Research the effects of ionization on molecular structures, focusing on DNA.
  • Explore the relationship between charge and molecular compression in biopolymers.
  • Investigate experimental methods for measuring spring constants in biological molecules.
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Researchers in molecular biology, physicists studying biophysics, and anyone interested in the mechanical properties of DNA and its behavior under ionization.

JJaX
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"Singly ionized"? What the...?

I have a problem where I'm trying to figure out the spring constant of a DNA molecule whose ends become "singly ionized" and so it contracts. The only problem is, I don't know what the question means by "singly charged." I would assume that it means that each side assumes opposite charges with a magnetude of the elemenary charge, but I'm not sure. I'll include the exact wording of the question if that helps:

A molecule of DNA is 2.17 micrometers long. The ends of the molecule become singly ionized--negative on one end and positive on the other. The helical molecule acts like a spring and compresses by 1.00% upon becoming charged. Determine the spring constant of the molecule.
 
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I think your interpretation is correct.

Of course, that's no guarantee. :)
 
I second the motion.
 

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