A Model Coupling Vibrational and Rotational Motion for the DNA Molecule

Abstract

We investigate a mechanical model for the DNA molecule using an extension of the Peyrard and Bishop model. In the present model, there are two chains of oscillators linked by a Morse potential, which represent the hydrogen bonds. The rotational and vibrational motions of each base pair are considered and the coupling for these motions are introduced by a nonlinear combination of them in the Morse potential. In this context, thermodynamics and structural properties are discussed.