Relaxation of stretched DNA in slitlike confinement
Journal
Physical Review Letters
Journal Volume
99
Journal Issue
23
Pages
-
Date Issued
2007
Author(s)
Abstract
We experimentally observe two separate time scales governing the entropic recoil in the linear force-extension regime of single double-stranded DNA in slit confinement. We demonstrate the existence of two distinct relaxation regimes at different extensions during relaxation. Contrary to bulk measurements, the true longest relaxation time may only be probed very close to equilibrium. A simple model of the relaxation mechanism leads to a scaling analysis that correctly predicts the extension at the crossover between the two regimes. © 2007 The American Physical Society.
Type
journal article