Final answer:
HMPs and LMPs form gels through a process called self-assembly, where individual peptides or proteins come together to form a larger structure through non-covalent interactions like hydrogen bonding.
Step-by-step explanation:
HMPs (Hydrogels of metal-ion-binding peptides) and LMPs (Low-molecular weight peptides) form gels through a process called self-assembly. Self-assembly occurs when the individual peptides or proteins come together to form a larger structure, such as a gel, through non-covalent interactions like hydrogen bonding. When HMPs or LMPs are mixed with a solution, they interact with each other and gradually form a network that traps water molecules, resulting in the formation of a gel.