Interactions in soft condensed matter

Description

Interactions between elementary soft condensed matter objectsplay a key role in the description of their structure, their organization and their dynamics. We will not focus on a particular soft matter system, but of interactions that enter in their description. Nevertheless, we will illustrate each kind of interaction by examples chosen among soft matter systems.

Compétences visées

•    Applying knowledge in physics

•    Apply methods from mathematics and digital technology

•    Produce a critical analysis, with hindsight and perspective

•    Research a physics topic using specialised resources

•    Communicate in writing and orally, including in English

•    Respect ethical, professional and environmental principles in the practice of physics 

Syllabus

1. Molecular forces

(a) Van der Waals interactions interactions between molecules

• interactions between macroscopic bodies

(b) Electrostatic forces in electrolytes

• Electrostatic self-energy of an ion : Debye-Huckel theory;

• Poisson-Boltzmann theory;

• Condensation of ions;

(c) Balance of forces : DLVO theory

2. Entropic forces
(a) Two component systems

• Effective hamiltonian

• Depletion interactions

(b) Polymer systems

• Tension of a polymer chain;

• Steric repulsion.

(c) Interaction forces between fluctuating surfaces

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