  Molecular dynamics simulations have been performed on pure liquid water,
aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, and polymer solutions exposed to a strong
external electric field with the goal to gain molecular insight into the
structural response to the field. Several simulation methodologies have been
used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the processes leading to the
formation of liquid bridges and jets (in the production of nanofibers). It is
shown that in the established nanoscale structures, the molecules form a chain
with their dipole moments oriented parallel to the applied field throughout the
entire sample volume. The presence of ions may disturb this structure leading
to its ultimate disintegration into droplets; the concentration dependence of
the threshold field required to stabilize a liquid column has been determined.
Conformational changes of the polymer in the jetting process have also been
observed.
