How many base pairs are present in a Z form DNA double helix of 148 nm in length?
Calculation of Base Pairs in Z Form DNA Double Helix:
Total Length of Z Form DNA Double Helix: 148 nm
Distance between Base Pairs: 0.34 nm
To calculate the number of base pairs:
Number of Base Pairs = Total Length / Distance between Base Pairs
Number of Base Pairs = 148 nm / 0.34 nm
Number of Base Pairs ≈ 435294 base pairs
Therefore, a Z form DNA double helix of 148 nm in length roughly consists of approximately 435294 base pairs. Each base pair in this structure is separated by a distance of 0.34 nm, forming the characteristic double helix structure of DNA.
This calculation highlights the relationship between the length of a Z form DNA double helix and the number of base pairs present in the molecule. It shows how the physical dimensions of the DNA structure determine the total number of base pairs, essential for genetic information storage and replication.