You are studying a new virus with a DNA genome of 12 kb.It can synthesize DNA at a rate of 400 nucleotides per second.If the virus uses theta replication, how long will it take to replicate its genome?
A)7)5 seconds
B)15 seconds
C)30 seconds
D)1 minute
E)2 minutes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To calculate the time taken for replication using theta replication, we need to use the formula: 
Time taken = (genome size/nucleotide synthesis rate) x 2

Plugging in the given values, we get:
Time taken = (12,000 nucleotides/400 nucleotides per second) x 2
Time taken = 30 seconds x 2
Time taken = 60 seconds or 1 minute

However, this calculation assumes that only one replication fork is present, which is not the case in theta replication where multiple forks are present. In theta replication, the fork generation rate is not constant and can vary throughout replication. Therefore, a more realistic estimate of replication time using theta replication would be half of the time calculated above i.e. 30 seconds/2 = 15 seconds.

You Are Studying a New Virus with a DNA Genome