Calculate the Approximate Length of a DNA Molecule

What is the approximate length of a DNA molecule (in the B form) containing 10,000 base pairs?

a) 3.4 µm

b) 3.4 mm

c) 3.4 cm

d) 0.34 µm

Final answer:

The approximate length of a DNA molecule (in the B form) containing 10,000 base pairs is approximately 3.4 µm.

Explanation: The approximate length of a DNA molecule (in the B form) containing 10,000 base pairs can be calculated based on the information provided. Each turn of the helix measures 3.4 nm, and there are ten base pairs per turn. Therefore, the length of the DNA molecule can be calculated as follows:

Length of DNA molecule = number of turns x length per turn = (number of base pairs / number of base pairs per turn) x length per turn = (10,000 / 10) x 3.4 nm = 1,000 x 3.4 nm = 3,400 nm = 3.4 µm.

Therefore, the approximate length of a DNA molecule containing 10,000 base pairs in the B form is approximately 3.4 µm.