An Attempt of a General Overview

In the present chapter, selected examples of specific ion effects are discussed. We start with experimental evidences in simple systems and end with ion effects at complex biological surfeces. Some general rules are extracted from these examples. The chapter also contains a short overview of current theories and simulations aiming at a more fundamental understanding of ion specificity. This chapter is intended to be a general introduction to the field and a basis for the following chapters that deal with more specific aspects. 

About Hofmeister Series, Kosmotropes, Chaotropes, and Related Concepts 

What was so revolutionary in the papers by Hofmeister and co-workers. First, these were the first extended systematic smdies on specific ion effects beyond the effect of different charges. Second, Hofineister considered quite different systems to derive the specific effects precipitation of proteins, of colloidal ferric oxide, and of sodium oleate, collagen (isinglass), etc. Third, he was the first to draw some general conclusions about specific ion effects that allowed him to order salts according to their water withdrawing capability  

The concepts by Robinson, Stokes, Gurney, Friedman, Collins and many others about specific ion hydration can be traced back to Hofmeister s conclusion  

Finally, Hofineister also described the origin of different osmotic pressures found from different salt solutions, as it will be discussed in Sec. 2.1.1  

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Kunz W, Neueder R. (2010) An attempt of a general overview. In Runz W (ed.). Specific Ion Effects, Chap. 1. World Scientific Publishing, Singapore. 

In the introductory chapter, it seems worthy to make an attempt of a general overview. It is not intended to be done extensively, for many good reviews exist. It is rather the intention to show some exemplary... 

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