The haploid human genome contains about 3 billion bp.Given a mutation rate of 5 × 10^-⁹, how many new mutations would we expect on average in each diploid individual?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mutation rate is given as $5 \times 10^{-8}$ per base pair. Since the haploid human genome contains about 3 billion base pairs (bp), a diploid genome would have about 6 billion bp. Multiplying the mutation rate by the number of base pairs in a diploid genome gives the expected number of new mutations per individual: $5 \times 10^{-8} \times 6 \times 10^9 = 300$. However, the correct interpretation of the mutation rate provided (considering the formatting might be misinterpreted) should lead to an expectation of around 30 new mutations per diploid genome per generation, aligning with current scientific understanding.

The Haploid Human Genome Contains About 3 Billion Bp