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Multiple Choice
The overall error rate in a completed DNA molecule is approximately __________.
A
1 error per 10^12 nucleotides
B
1 error per 10^3 nucleotides
C
1 error per 10^9 nucleotides
D
1 error per 10^6 nucleotides
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the error rate in DNA replication refers to how frequently mistakes occur when nucleotides are added during the synthesis of a new DNA strand.
Recall that DNA polymerase has proofreading ability, which significantly reduces the error rate compared to the initial incorporation of nucleotides.
Consider that the raw error rate of DNA polymerase without proofreading is about 1 error per 10^5 to 10^6 nucleotides, but proofreading and mismatch repair mechanisms further reduce this rate.
Recognize that after all correction mechanisms, the overall error rate in a completed DNA molecule is much lower, typically around 1 error per 10^9 nucleotides.
Therefore, the correct answer corresponds to the error rate after all proofreading and repair processes have occurred, which is approximately 1 error per 10^9 nucleotides.