Question

Growth Rate of Bamboo The stems of bamboo, a tropical grass, can grow at the phenomenal rate of 0.3 m/day under optimal conditions. Given that the stems are composed almost entirely of cellulose fibers oriented in the direction of growth, calculate the number of sugar residues per second that must be added enzymatically to growing cellulose chains 1016 to account for the growth rate. Each D-glucose unit contributes ~0.5 nm to the length of a cellulose molecule

Answer 1

To account for the growth rate of bamboo stems at 0.3 m/day, approximately 2.08 x 10^20 sugar residues per second must be added enzymatically to growing cellulose chains.

Step-by-step explanation:

The growth rate of bamboo stems involves the elongation of cellulose chains, which are composed of D-glucose units. To calculate the number of sugar residues added per second, we can use the given growth rate and the contribution of each D-glucose unit to the length of a cellulose molecule. The formula to calculate the number of sugar residues added per second is
`\( \text{Growth Rate} / (\text{Contribution per unit} * \text{Number of seconds in a day}) \).`

Using the given growth rate of 0.3 m/day and the contribution of each D-glucose unit (0.5 nm), we convert the units and perform the calculation. The result is approximately 2.08 x 10^20 sugar residues per second. This calculation provides insight into the rapid enzymatic processes involved in the growth of bamboo stems.

Understanding the biochemistry of cellulose synthesis and growth rates in bamboo sheds light on the impressive capabilities of certain plants. The enzymatic addition of sugar residues contributes to the elongation of cellulose chains, supporting the structural integrity and rapid growth observed in bamboo stems. This type of analysis is essential in plant biology and biotechnology, offering valuable information for researchers studying plant development and potential applications in materials science.