Rigid Gaussian Chains I: the Scattering Function

Abstract

We study the scattering function of semiflexible polymer chains within the framework of a rigid Gaussian model for polymers first introduced by Harris and Hearst. The tractability of this model allows for a computation of the most relevant physical properties for any value of the chain rigidity. We also explore at the level of the Random Phase Approximation some of the bulk and surface behaviour of semidilute solutions of semiflexible polymers.