“On worm-like chain models within the three-dimensional continuum mechanics framework”

In this paper, we review critically some basic models derived from the statistics of longchain molecules and then discuss the status of such models within the three-dimensional nonlinear theory of elasticity. We draw attention to some deficiencies of certain wormlike chain (WLC) models when viewed within the three-dimensional continuum mechanics framework. Modifications of the WLC models motivated by such considerations and avoiding these deficiencies are then discussed and shown to correspond well with data generated by the exact WLC model.