Entropic network modulus (source code)

= Entropic network modulus
{title2=$G\sim nk_BT\sim k_BT/m^3$}

A network of flexible thermally fluctuating strands stores an order-$k_BT$ elastic free-energy change per active strand under an order-one deformation. For active-strand <number density> $n$, its <shear modulus> is therefore of order $nk_BT$. If one active element occupies a mesh <volume> $m^3$, this becomes $k_BT/m^3$. The numerical coefficient depends on network connectivity, defects and the deformation model. A mesh size alone does not fix the modulus of a general athermal or bending-dominated network; strand stiffness is then additional input.