A1.2.9 Diversity of possible DNA base sequences and its capacity for storing information Flashcards
How many possible sequences are there for a 2-base DNA sequence?
There are $4^2 = 16$ possible sequences.
How many base pairs can a single human cell store?
A single human cell can store about 6.4 billion base pairs.
How many possible sequences are there for a 3-base DNA sequence?
There are $4^3 = 64$ possible sequences.
What is the formula for calculating the number of possible DNA sequences of length n?
The number of possible sequences is given by $4^n$.
What is the diameter of DNA?
DNA’s diameter is just 2 nanometers.
What are some practical applications of DNA’s information capacity?
Genetic engineering, DNA data storage technology, personalized medicine, and species identification.
What is the significance of DNA’s information storage capacity?
It allows for stability and controlled change through evolution.
How does DNA’s information storage compare to computer code?
DNA can be imagined as a biological computer code using four digits (A, T, G, C) instead of the binary system’s two digits (0, 1).
What is the approximate length of DNA from a single human cell when stretched out?
It would reach about 2 meters in length.
What does the complementary nature of base pairing imply?
If you know one strand’s sequence, you automatically know the other strand’s sequence.
How does DNA ensure information reliability?
Through complementary base pairing, a double-stranded structure, and repair mechanisms.
What allows for unique genetic codes in different species?
The vast number of possible combinations of DNA sequences.
