logo.gif (3296 bytes)Introduction to Protein Structure

Ionic Bonding


Positive (cationic) groups and negative (anionic) groups that are near one another are attracted:

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These electrostatic interactions are stronger in nonpolar environements than in aqueous environments because of the shielding effect of polar water molecules:

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Copyright © 1998, 1999, 2007 by Frank R. Gorga;   Page maintained by F.R. Gorga;   Last updated: 12-Mar-2007