You are studying a new virus with a DNA genome of 12 Kb. It can synthesize DNA at a rate of 400 nucleotides per second. If the virus uses theta replication, how long will it take to replicate its genome

15 seconds

Explanation:

Theta replication of Human DNA is bidirectional

The DNA genome = 12kb = 12000 b

for Theta replication of Human DNA 800 nucleotide are added every second

therefore for a DNA with 12000 genome it will take

= 12000/800 = 15 seconds to replicate its genome of 12kb (12000 b)

note : A Theta structure is an intermediate structure formed during the replication of a circular DNA molecule