Biophys J, February 2000, p. 694-698, Vol. 78, No. 2

Clustering of Macroions in Solutions of Highly Asymmetric Electrolytes

Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Akereva 5, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

In this paper, we present results of computer simulations for a primitive model of asymmetric electrolyte solutions containing macroions, counterions and in a few cases, also co-ions. The results show that the valency of counterions plays an important role in shaping the net interaction between the macroions. For solutions with monovalent counterions, the macroions are distributed at larger distances, and in solutions with divalent counterions, the macroions come closer to each other and share a layer of counterions, whereas, in solutions with trivalent counterions, the macroions form clusters. These clusters dissolve upon dilution or addition of a simple electrolyte. These findings suggest a mechanism whereby the nonuniform distribution of macroions observed experimentally in charged systems may occur.

Biophys J, February 2000, p. 694-698, Vol. 78, No. 2
© 2000 by the Biophysical Society   0006-3495/00/02/694/05  $2.00