Electric properties of macromolecules. X. Conduction and the question of ferroelectricity in solid sodium deoxyribonucleate

Data are presented for electric conduction in solid sodium deoxyribonucleate as a function of water content and over a wide range of frequencies. We have also examined the loops seen in a ferroelectric hysteresis bridge. It is proposed that both the conductivity and the loops of samples with high water content are probably due to ion conduction and electrolysis. Dry samples appear to have the characteristics of an inhomogeneous semiconductor. Possible mechanisms of carrier generation are briefly discussed.