NASA NTRS1983
A mathematical theory is presented which shows that each of the four classical electrophoretic modes (zone electrophoresis, moving boundary electrophoresis, isotachophoresis, and isoelectric focusing) is based on the same general principles and can collectively be described in terms of a single set of equations. This model can predict the evolution of the four electrophoretic modes as a function of time. The model system is one-dimensional, neglecting the effects of electroosmosis, temperature gradients, and any bulk flows of liquid. The model is based on equations which express the components' dissociation equilibria, the mass transport due to electromigration and diffusion, electroneutrality, and the conservation of mass and charge. The model consists of a system of coupled partial differential and nonlinear algebraic equations which can be solved numerically by use of a computer. The versatility of this model was verified using an example of a three-component system containing cacodylate, tris hydroxylmethylaminomethane, and histidine. Results show that this model not only correctly predicts the characteristic features of each electrophoretic mode, but also gives details of the concentration, pH, and conductivity profiles not easily amenable to direct experimental measurement.