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The Science Behind Gecko Feet: Intermolecular Forces and Adhesion in Climbing

Geckos exhibit remarkable climbing abilities, thanks to specialized footpads coated with setae, which are tiny hair-like structures made of protein. These proteins are polar molecules that create strong intermolecular forces with both polar and nonpolar surfaces. The unique shape of the setae increases surface area contact, enhancing adhesion. However, the intermolecular forces are not permanent, allowing geckos to easily detach their feet while climbing. This fascinating mechanism demonstrates the power of intermolecular forces in nature.

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The Science Behind Gecko Feet: Intermolecular Forces and Adhesion in Climbing

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  1. CHEMISTRY 2000 Topics of Interest #4: Geckos and “Sticky Feet” – Putting Intermolecular Forces to Work

  2. Gecko Feet • Geckos can climb vertical surfaces thanks to footpads coated with foot-hairs (setae) made of protein: Nature (2007) 448, 338-341. http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v448/n7151/full/nature05968.html images from Creative Commons

  3. Gecko Feet • Proteins are large and highly polar molecules: • As such, intermolecular forces between the proteins in the setae and any polar surface will be strong (dipole-dipole, dipole-induced dipole and induced dipole-induced dipole). Intermolecular forces between the proteins in the setae and nonpolar surfaces will also be strong (dipole-induced dipole and induced dipole-induced dipole).

  4. Gecko Feet • The shape of the setae also contributes to the strength of the intermolecular forces since they provide a large surface area contacting any surface the gecko climbs: • Since intermolecular forces are not permanent bonds, the gecko can still pull its foot off the surface, disrupting the IMF, as it climbs. So, it does not get stuck to the surface!

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