In the following graph that shows changes in the lengths of two microtubules over time, which time point corresponds to a catastrophe for both microtubules? Which trace corresponds to a microtubule with greater dynamic instability?
A) t₁; trace (a)
B) t₁; trace (b)
C) t₂; trace (a)
D) t₂; trace (b)

Question

In the following graph that shows changes in the lengths of two microtubules over time, which time point corresponds to a catastrophe for both microtubules? Which trace corresponds to a microtubule with greater dynamic instability? 
A) t₁; trace (a) 
B) t₁; trace (b) 
C) t₂; trace (a) 
D) t₂; trace (b)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Catastrophe is the transition from growth to shrinkage, while rescue is the transition from shrinkage to growth. The transition frequencies are generally higher in more dynamic microtubules, which also tend to be shorter.

In the Following Graph That Shows Changes in the Lengths