During conjugation, one gene (A) is found to transfer to the recipient bacteria 26 minutes following the start of conjugation, while a second gene (M) is found to transfer 37 minutes following the start of conjugation. A third gene (T) transfers 45 minutes following the start of conjugation. Based on this information, which of the following is true?
A) The genetic distance between genes A and M is 11 minutes.
B) The genetic distance between genes A and T is 19 minutes.
C) The genetic distance between genes M and T is 8 minutes.
D) The order of the genes is A M T.
E) All of the answers are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The genetic distances between the genes can be calculated based on the time it takes for each gene to transfer during conjugation. Gene A transfers at 26 minutes, M at 37 minutes, and T at 45 minutes. The difference in transfer times directly reflects the genetic distances: A to M is 11 minutes (37-26), A to T is 19 minutes (45-26), and M to T is 8 minutes (45-37). The order of gene transfer, A then M then T, indicates their linear arrangement on the chromosome. Therefore, all statements are correct.

During Conjugation, One Gene (A) Is Found to Transfer to the Recipient