Polymer Force-Extension Behavior

This lecture explores the force-extension characteristic of polymers, focusing on the behavior of polymers under force. The instructor discusses the setup involving an AFM cantilever attached to a polymer, the measurement of force by laser deflection, and the use of optical tweezers. The lecture delves into the entropic resistance of polymers to stretching, the elasticity of rubber, and the models used to interpret experimental results. Various limits of force application are examined, revealing linear relations and the importance of self-avoidance in biopolymer analysis.