Micelle Core Radius Formula:
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Definition: The micelle core radius is the distance from the center to the circumference of a micelle, which is an aggregate of surfactant molecules in a solution.
Purpose: This calculator helps determine the size of micelle cores based on aggregation number and hydrophobic tail volume, important in colloid chemistry and pharmaceutical applications.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the radius of a sphere that would contain the total volume of all hydrophobic tails in the micelle.
Details: Knowing the micelle core radius helps in understanding solubilization capacity, drug delivery systems, and surfactant behavior in solutions.
Tips: Enter the micellar aggregation number (typically 50-100 for common surfactants) and the volume of hydrophobic tail in cubic meters. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a typical micellar aggregation number?
A: For common surfactants like SDS, aggregation numbers range from 50-100 in aqueous solutions.
Q2: How do I determine the volume of hydrophobic tail?
A: It can be estimated using molecular modeling or from density measurements of the hydrocarbon.
Q3: Why is the result in Angstroms?
A: Micelle sizes are typically in the nanometer range (1 nm = 10 Å), making Angstroms a convenient unit.
Q4: Does this formula account for packing constraints?
A: This is a simplified model assuming spherical micelles and perfect packing. Real systems may vary.
Q5: What affects micelle core radius?
A: Surfactant chain length, temperature, and solvent conditions all influence micelle size.