Cytosine makes up 42% of the nucleotides in a sample of DNA from an organism. Approximately what percentage of the nucleotides in this sample will be thymine?A) 8%B) 16% C) 42%D) 58%
To determine the approximate percentage of thymine in the sample of DNA, we need to understand the base pairing rules in DNA
To determine the approximate percentage of thymine in the sample of DNA, we need to understand the base pairing rules in DNA. In DNA, the bases adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always pairs with guanine (G).
Since we are given that cytosine makes up 42% of the nucleotides in the sample, we can infer that guanine (G) also makes up 42% because their base pairing is always equal. This leaves 16% for the remaining two bases, adenine (A) and thymine (T).
According to Chargaff’s rules, in DNA, adenine (A) is always equal to thymine (T) and guanine (G) is always equal to cytosine (C). Therefore, since A and T are always equal, the remaining 16% is divided equally between them.
Therefore, the approximate percentage of thymine (T) in the sample of DNA will be 8%, which is half of the remaining 16%.
So, the correct answer is A) 8%.
More Answers:
Understanding DNA Base Pairing: Exploring the Correct Combination of BasesThe Importance of DNA Sequences: Carrying Hereditary Information
Determining the Approximate Percentage of Guanine in a Sample of DNA: An Analysis Based on Base Pairing Rule.