Question

The DNA of an E coli cell measures 1.4 mm in length, when extended and 20 angstroms in diameter.

a) Calculate the volume of DNA in an E coli cell in cm^3

b) What fraction of an E coli cell is occupied by its DNA?

c) A human cell is typically spherical with a diameter of 20 micrometers. Calculate the volume of a human cell in cm ^3.

Answer 1

1.4 mm = 0.14 cm
20 angstroms = 20 x 10^-8 cm.
Use those dimensions to determine the volume.
Do you know the volume of an E coli cell? Don't you need to know that before b can be answered.
For c, 20 micrometers = 20 x 10^-4 cm
Post your work if you get stuck.