Question:

A DNA molecule is 140 base pairs long. It has 20% thymine. How many guanine bases are present in the molecule ?

Show Hint

A = T = 20%, so G = C = 30% of 280 nucleotides = 84.
Updated On: Oct 22, 2026
  • 64
  • 84
  • 32
  • 56
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
DNA is double stranded. By Chargaff's rule, A pairs with T, and G pairs with C. So A = T and G = C.

Step 2: Count the bases:
140 base pairs means \( 140 \times 2 = 280 \) nucleotides in total.

Step 3: Use the percentages:
Thymine is 20%, so adenine is also 20%. Together A + T = 40%.
The rest is G + C = \( 100 - 40 = 60\% \). So G = C = 30% each.

Step 4: Find guanine:
\[ G = \frac{30}{100} \times 280 = 84 \]

Step 5: Check the options:
56 is the number of thymine bases (20% of 280), not guanine, so (D) is wrong.
64 and 32 do not match any base count here. So only (B) 84 fits.

Final Answer:
Guanine bases = 84, option (B). \[ \boxed{84} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0