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

Theta replication involves bidirectional replication from a single origin. Therefore, the replication rate effectively doubles to 800 nucleotides per second. With a 12 Kb genome, it will take 15 seconds to replicate (12,000 nucleotides / 800 nucleotides per second = 15 seconds).

You Are Studying a New Virus with a DNA Genome