If 65% of the ribosome is rRNA, what percentage is protein?

Study for the Biochemistry Module 6 Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions; each question includes hints and explanations. Gear up to ace your test!

Multiple Choice

If 65% of the ribosome is rRNA, what percentage is protein?

Explanation:
Ribosomes are ribonucleoprotein complexes where most of the mass comes from ribosomal RNA, with proteins providing the rest for structure and function. If 65% of the ribosome’s mass is rRNA, then the remaining portion must be protein, since the total mass is 100%. That leaves 35% for protein. This reflects the general idea that rRNA is the dominant component by mass, while proteins make up about one-third. The idea that protein could be 50% or 65% would contradict the given 65% rRNA, and 10% would leave far too little protein to account for the rest of the mass.

Ribosomes are ribonucleoprotein complexes where most of the mass comes from ribosomal RNA, with proteins providing the rest for structure and function. If 65% of the ribosome’s mass is rRNA, then the remaining portion must be protein, since the total mass is 100%. That leaves 35% for protein. This reflects the general idea that rRNA is the dominant component by mass, while proteins make up about one-third. The idea that protein could be 50% or 65% would contradict the given 65% rRNA, and 10% would leave far too little protein to account for the rest of the mass.

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