The collapse transition in three-dimensional linear and ring polymers

Abstract

The collapse transition for three-dimensional linear and ring polymers is investigated by Brownian dynamics. It is found that the mean-square radius of gyration, 〈S2〉, displays a different power law for strong and weak attractive forces between chain units, N: for rings 〈S2〉∼N1.2 (weak forces) and N2/3 (strong forces), whereas for linear drains 〈S2〉2(N−1)1.2 (weak forces) and (N−1)2/3 (strong forces).