Bethe approximation for a DNA-like self-avoiding walk model with variable solvent quality

TL;DR

This paper uses the Bethe approximation to analyze a DNA-like self-avoiding walk model, exploring how solvent quality influences phase transitions and critical behavior in the system.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of the Bethe approximation to a DNA zipping/unzipping model with variable solvent quality, revealing diverse thermodynamic behaviors.

Findings

Solvent quality significantly affects phase diagrams.

Multiple thermodynamic behaviors observed.

Critical points depend on solvent conditions.

Abstract

The phase diagram and critical behaviour of a simple toy model for DNA zipping/unzipping is examined in the framework of the Bethe approximation. The effects of solvent quality are included, and found to lead to a variety of different thermodynamic behaviours.