Eukaryotic ribosomes consist of 2 subunits designated as 40S and 60S. The S value is most dependent on which of the following properties of the subunit?
A) composition of the RNA bases
B) interactions between the RNA and protein components
C) protein content
D) RNA content
E) shape and size of the subunit

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The S value, or Svedberg unit, is a measure of the rate of sedimentation during centrifugation, which is influenced by the shape and size of the subunit rather than its composition or interactions.  The "S" in 40S and 60S refers to the Svedberg coefficient, which is a unit of measure for sedimentation rate. The sedimentation rate is the rate at which particles of a given size and shape travel to the bottom of the tube under centrifugal force. The Svedberg coefficient is technically a measure of time and offers a measure of particle size based on its rate of travel in a tube subjected to high gravitational force.

Eukaryotic Ribosomes Consist of 2 Subunits Designated as 40S and 60S