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Each base pair sits how far from the next along the helix?
A3.4 nanometres
B10.0 nanometres
C34.0 nanometres
D0.34 nanometres
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. 0.34 nanometres
1. Two related measurements describe the rise of the helix.
2. Each base pair is separated from the other base pair by a distance of 0.34 nanometres.
3. Each turn of the helix measures 3.4 nanometres.
4. 3.4 nanometres is therefore the trap: that is a full turn, not a single step.
5. Dividing one by the other gives the number of base pairs per turn.
_Source: OpenStax Biology for AP(R) Courses (CC BY 4.0), Ch 14 'DNA Structure and Function', sections 14.1-14.6_
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