134k views
2 votes
In one second, a lipid in an artificial bilayer may diffuse as far as what

distance?
A. 2 nanometers (the width of a DNA double helix)
B. 2 microns (the length of a large bacterial cell)
C. 500 microns (the length of a typical amoeba)

User Leppie
by
7.6k points

1 Answer

1 vote

Final answer:

In one second, a lipid in an artificial bilayer may diffuse as far as 2 nanometers, equivalent to the width of a DNA double helix.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question seeks to understand the diffusion distance of a lipid within an artificial bilayer in one second. Lipids in a synthetic bilayer can move quite rapidly, yet they do not tend to cover extremely large distances instantly. Considering the sizes mentioned in the question, option A, which suggests a distance of 2 nanometers, is a realistic estimate of the distance a lipid could diffuse within a second in an artificial bilayer. This distance roughly corresponds to the width of a DNA double helix. To clarify, 2 microns, as suggested in option B would be quite a large distance for a lipid to move in such a short time, and 500 microns, the length of a typical amoeba, as referenced in option C, is far too great for such a brief diffusion period.

User Brian Chrisman
by
8.3k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.

9.4m questions

12.2m answers

Categories