The dielectric properties of aqueous nucleic acid solutions

Abstract

The dielectric properties of aqueous solutions of the sodium salts of ribonucleic acid and deoxyribonucleic acid have been determined. The general pattern of behaviour observed for other aqueous polyelectrolyte systems has been verified in these studies. There are indications that a low frequency dispersion region (below 2 Mc/s) is present as well as the normal high frequency dispersion region. The theoretical interpretation of the experimental results makes use of the O’Konski theory of ionic polarization and the formulation of an equilibrium between counterions ‘non-specifically bound’ and ‘free’ from the electrostatic field of the polyion. Calculations are made on the basis of this theory and estimates of the values of the specific conductivities existing at the polyion surface are made.