Conformations of random polyampholytes

We study the size R-g of random polyampholytes (i.e., polymers with randoml y charged monomers) as a function of their length N. All results of our ext ensive Monte Carlo simulations can be rationalized in terms of the scaling theory we develop for the Kantor-Kardar necklace model, although this theor y neglects the quenched disorder in the charge sequence along the chain. We find (R-g) proportional to N1/2. Th, elongated globule model, the initial predictions of both Higgs and Joanny (proportional to N1/3) and Kantor and Kardar (proportional to N), and previous numerical estimates are ruled out.