Mathematical Proof that an Arm's Length of DNA is in Every Cell

We know from X-ray diffraction studies that a strand of DNA is 1.5 nanometers (1.5 x 10 to the -9 meters) in radius. Assume a cylinder 1 meter long (the arm's length) with a radius of 1.5 nanometers and work out the volume (length x pi r-squared). A typical animal cell is about 8 micrometers (8 x 10 to the -6 meters) in radius. Assume a spherical cell and calculate the volume (4/3 pi r-cubed). Do it yourself. You will see that the DNA fits easily inside the cell, with plenty of room for all of the rest of the cellular machinery.

The human imagination is hobbled by the limitations of the senses. Mathematics allows the imagination to go where the senses have not strayed.

Notes:

Chet Raymo does the math to demonstrate this seemingly impossible scientific facts.

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Imagine that

Electronic/World Wide Web>Blog: Raymo , Chet (SEPTEMBER 21, 2011), Imagine that, Science Musings Blog, Retrieved on 2012-01-05

Source Material [blog.sciencemusings.com]

Folksonomies: mathematics dna

Schemas

12 JUN 2011

The Scientist's Unique Perspectives on Nature

Examples of scientists giving us unique explanations of natural phenomena.

Folksonomies: spiritual naturalism nature perspectives